How NOT to enjoy learning the piano
Article by John Dapaah, SHS Piano Teacher
How NOT to enjoy learning the piano
Most people start learning piano by using method books. I’m not against method books; I think they’re great – if used properly. A method book that teaches you to to read music from the very start is asking a lot from you.
You are asked to:
1. Read a foreign language made up of dots and lines with your fingers curved and wrists relaxed. Not difficult at all.. right?
2. Count aloud.
3. Play the correct notes.
ALL AT ONCE. I don’t know about you but I think even superman would have a hard time with that.
Don’t get me wrong. All these things are very crucial when learning the piano. But it may be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re learning on your own.
Here are 3 tips that may help.
1. Feel the piano (the keyboard).
Get acquainted with the instrument, then PLAY IT. It doesn’t matter if you don’t know how to play anything. JUST PLAY. The more you do this, the easier you will be able to learn and actual piece.
2. Be patient and take it slow.
Most of us won’t become concert pianists over night. Whether you are learning scales or a piece, you need to take your time learning it – ESPECIALLY in the beginning. Before you can play something at a fast speed, you must be able to play it slowly. I’ve been playing the piano for quite a while and I still use this method of learning to this day!
3. Listen. Create. Play.
Whether you believe it or not, we are all musical and capable of carrying a tune. Try listening to a simple song, then playing it back. Even if it doesn’t sound right, do it anyways. You can also make up a tune on the piano (this is called improvising) and create some music!
Now, go have fun learning piano!
To book a trial piano lesson with us at SHS, visit www.singhousestudios.ca We can and will help you reach your musical goals!
