People of many different ages find themselves asking the question: am I too old to learn piano? No matter your age, playing the piano is a wonderful skill to have for a variety of reasons.
Studies have shown that playing music reduces stress and improves the memory. Playing an instrument in a group also leads to lifelong friendships, while refining communication and social skills.
If you’re wondering whether or not your age will stand in between you and all the benefits of playing the piano, keep reading. We asked five piano experts for their thoughts on adult students, from different age groups, learning to play the instrument.
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“Am I Too Old to Learn Piano?” Get Answers Here.
Is 20-30 Too Old to Learn Piano?
Liz T. – Piano Teacher in Brooklyn, NY
“Learning to play, or picking back up, the piano or keyboard in your 20s is a wonderful idea! Many students from a variety of fields enjoy exploring their creative side in addition to their professions. Diving into the piano is also a nice release from your busy work day.
If a student had attempted to play piano when they were much younger, but didn’t have the focus or patience, oftentimes this focus is much more narrowed as an adult, and the concepts are easier to comprehend when you’re between 20-30.”
What is Your Advice to Students in This Age Group?
“My advice for adults learning to play piano is to take a fun song you know, and start from the basics. Learn the melody with the left hand, then the right hand, and put them together. Practice a little bit each day, even if it’s for 15 minutes in the morning when you wake up, and 15 minutes before you go to bed at night.”
Is 30-40 Too Old to Learn Piano?
Rebecca K. – Piano Teacher in Vallejo, CA
“The 30-40 age is such a unique and frankly, exhausting time to live. I know- I’m there myself! Many of us have young kids, a job, and enough worries to fill a bank account (even when it feels like nothing else can). That’s why I argue that this age is the PERFECT time to start learning piano! Self-care is something we must practice, especially in finding something that brings you joy.”
What is Your Advice to Students in This Age Group?
“All piano takes is dedication, an instrument, and a little bit of time. You’re never too old to start learning piano; you may, however, get to a point where you regret not starting sooner!”
Is 40-50 Too Old to Learn Piano?
James F. – Piano Teacher in Charlotte, NC
“There is no age that is really ‘too old’ to learn to play the piano. However, there are lifestyle factors that typically get in the way of progress once somebody enters the workforce full-time.
Many of my adult students have struggled with balancing a professional career, a family, and their progress as a piano player. There are ways, however, for the disciplined student to overcome this.”
What is Your Advice to Students in This Age Group?
“I recommend practicing in 10-25 minute sets, two to four times a day. Three times a day or more is really ideal, as in – wake up a little bit earlier to practice, do another session as soon as you get home, and another one right before bed. With this routine, you will see progress.”
Is 50-60 Too Old to Learn Piano?
William P. – Piano Teacher in Waterbury, Connecticut
“Learning piano has no age limit. In fact, activities like learning piano can stimulate the brain, increasing the ability to recall information. There are physical benefits to learning piano as well.
By practicing fine motor skills in your fingers, piano students are keeping the muscles in their hands flexible. Having flexibility in your hands can combat arthritis and improve circulation in your fingers.”
What is Your Advice to Students in This Age Group?
“There are three things to keep in mind. The first is that music is like a language, and it requires time and patience to achieve steady growth. Secondly, physical problems such as arthritis or joint stiffness are only minor obstacles that can easily be overcome.
Lastly, learning an instrument should be seen as a simple pleasure in life and not a chore. Approach it as a time to explore your musical side!”
Is 70+ Too Old to Learn Piano?
Marie France M. – Piano Teacher in Waldwick, NJ
“There are certain advantages the 70+ student brings to the table. They are self-motivated which means no one has to push them to practice and they know what they want to learn, which gives the teacher a clear focus.”
What is Your Advice to Students in This Age Group?
“Elder students do have a higher percentage of physical challenges than their younger counterparts, particularly with eyesight and arthritis. I recommend having good direct lighting, and a magnifying glass in reach. Large print music is also a real plus.
Work in five-minute increments with a moment in between to massage the fingers and do a quick posture and relaxation check before going on.”
Next Steps for Learning Piano as an Adult…
When it comes to learning the piano, age is just a number! Now that you no longer have to wonder “Am I too old to learn piano?”, here are a few steps you can take to get started.
- Find a piano teacher who has experience working with older students.
- Not ready for private lessons yet? Try free online piano classes.
- Commit to practicing everyday and take baby steps.
- Remember to enjoy yourself! Piano lessons and practice should be fun.
- Stay motivated by keeping the reasons you want to learn piano top of mind.
Whether playing the piano is an escape from the stresses of life, a goal you’ve wanted to pursue for years, or an exercise to help with the effects of aging, you won’t regret starting your piano-learning journey today.
Are you an older piano student with advice to share? Leave a comment below and share your tips!
Natalie Hagen