5 things you need before you start playing the piano
Category: Practice and Performance
Learning the piano is a journey that takes dedication and motivation. It pays to be prepared. Taking a little bit of time to prepare before you jump in will pay off in the long run. Take a few minutes and make sure you have everything you need before you start.
1. A Goal
The first step of any journey should involve defining a destination. What do you want from this experience? Some example goals might be: I will play the piano in church this Christmas season. I will finish the first level of the Alfred’s piano method in 6 months. Set one or more goals that you would like to achieve in the next 6 months to a year.
2. A Plan
Devising a plan is a step that is often overlooked. This step is especially important for busy adults who don’t have a lot of time to spare. Take a look at how serious you are about learning the piano. What steps will you take in order to achieve your goal? How much time and money do you want to invest? What time of day will you practice? How long will you practice? What kind of resources are available for you to use?
All of these things are important to think about. Write your plan down. Promise yourself that you will stick to the plan. Tell other people about it. Set yourself up for success! Periodically review and revise your plan to keep yourself motivated.
3. The Right Instrument
You will need to have a piano or keyboard available to you. You don’t need anything fancy, you just need something that works! Things to consider when purchasing an instrument is functionality, price, space requirements, and maintenance requirements.
Your cheapest option is to go with a digital keyboard. You will want a keyboard with at least 5 octaves (about 66 keys). A full-sized keyboard will have 88 keys. Eventually you may also want a sustain pedal. Well-established brands include Yamaha and Casio. Buy one new, buy one used, or borrow one from a friend…just get one!
Only you know what is right for you. In most cases a keyboard in the price range of $100-200 will fit the job requirements perfectly.
4. Resources
Whether you are taking formal lessons or teaching yourself, you will need information. Luckily we live in the information age. Virtually everything you will need is available on the internet including sheet music, lessons, and software.
Other types of resources include forums, books, CDs, and friends… the possibilities are endless!
5. Commitment
It’s easy to start something – finishing is what makes the effort worthwhile. Make a commitment to yourself that you will achieve your goal – put it in writing, tell your friends, tell your family, tell your coworkers. Commit to it 100%. Motivation will fade, commitment is the only thing that will keep you going.
Well, thats it, you are ready to go! Good luck and happy playing!
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Posted on October 17th, 2008 by sharlene
1 Comment
October 22nd, 2008 at 7:09 am
This post is very informative and well written.
Keep up the good work!!!