The ever-popular piano: with its large repertoire of songs and adaptability across many genres, it’s no wonder it’s one of the most enjoyable and accessible instruments around for beginner musicians. Maybe you’ve thought about learning this instrument, but how do you know where to start? What is the easiest way to learn piano, if there is one? Maybe you have tried striking a key or two, but weren’t sure where to go from there.
With the advent of the Internet and the ability to communicate with anyone, anywhere, at any time, you have several options for how to start playing the piano. So what is the easiest way to learn piano? That depends on you and your learning style, but here are some choices that can help you start:
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Books: Many people love the Internet, but others also enjoy learning from a good old-fashioned book. At your local library or bookstore, you can read about all aspects of the piano, including its history, basics about notes and scales, composing for the piano, and more. If you’re more of a linguistic-style learner, you may realize that the easiest way to learn piano does not have to be restricted to playing!
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Free online videos: If you are undecided about which method of instruction to use, or you just want to gain a basic idea of what it’s like to play the piano, consider searching for some free online videos. Although they’re not the optimal way to learn piano in the long-term, you can still get a taste of what you need to know and how to learn it. You can find videos from people of all levels and in many genres.
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Friend or family member: Sometimes the best introductory resources are the ones closest to home – literally! Since piano is such a popular instrument, chances are good that you know a friend or family member with some experience. Although they may not be able to give you the detailed instruction you need to progress, friends and family can teach you how to identify notes on both the treble and bass clefs, provide an overview about sharps and flats, and help you play a few easy piano songs.
While the above options are all great ways of sinking your teeth into learning the piano, ultimately the best and easiest way to learn piano is by taking lessons with a piano teacher. Here are some reasons why:
Knowledge, experience, and education: trained instructors have it all. They can prepare you for exams and recitals, and help you learn your favorite songs. Private instructors can teach you the techniques used in many songs, making it easier to learn more complicated songs later on in your studies. Plus, if you’re having trouble with a specific section or phrase, the one-on-one guidance and advice will go a long way.
Instructors can also expose you to different types of music that will expand your repertoire, and introduce you to other like-minded students of similar abilities and goals.
Many teachers hold yearly recitals, which can be a great opportunity to increase your confidence and get comfortable being in front of a crowd, which often translates to other life skills.
Finally, private piano teachers can ensure that you’re using the correct technique, posture, and fingering, thus avoiding injuries and strains as you play.
While some people shy away from taking private lessons for a variety of reasons (such as cost, location, practice schedule, or fear of making mistakes), the thing is – the investment you make in your learning is worth it. Your piano teacher will keep you motivated, introduce you to new genres and music, and monitor your progress – all ensuring that learning the piano is both easy and fun!
Overall, remember that when it comes to figuring out the easiest way to learn piano, the most important piece of the puzzle is you. A teacher, video, or book can only take you so far. It’s up to you how quickly and far you want to advance. Take what your instructor tells you, and incorporate it into your practicing in between lessons. Good luck!
Photo by philborg
Suzy S.