According to the ABRSM – the UK’s largest music education body – piano is the most popular instrument to learn. But is piano hard to learn?
The answer depends on a number of factors, for example, your musical background, your goals, and your work ethic. If you can already read music, you’ll certainly find playing the piano a little easier to start with than, say, someone who has never picked up an instrument before.
Regardless, let’s take a look at four important considerations to take into account before you begin playing piano.
Ready? Let’s get started.
1. Having a great teacher is key to success
Is piano hard to learn? If you have a lousy teacher, yes. Whether you’ve already got a little experience or you’re a total beginner, a poorly equipped teacher won’t have the skills, tools, and patience needed to help you reach your potential as a pianist.
Keep in mind that your piano teacher should do more than simply tell you to put one finger here and the other there. The best in the business will, instead, inspire a love of music, giving you a sense of direction and working closely with you to overcome your personal challenges.
If you want access to some of the very best piano teachers in the Sydney region, find out more about our piano lessons.
2. Your work ethic matters
If you’re taking on an instrument like the piano, you must commit – and we mean really commit – to devoting hours upon hours to practice. The more you put in, the more you’ll get out. Of course, that doesn’t mean five-plus-hour marathon practice sessions. But you’ll need to do more than 30 minutes once or twice a week. That just won’t cut it.
Make practicing the piano a part of your regular schedule, a habit, like brushing your teeth, sitting down with your family for dinner, or working out.
3. It’s easy to psych yourself out
In your bedroom practicing and on stage performing, it’s easy to psych yourself out when playing the piano. Nerves are a real thing, and with so much to keep track of when creating music on your piano, it’s pretty common to become overwhelmed or stressed.
The best thing to do is to avoid overthinking it. Try to take it as it comes. Give yourself plenty of time when learning new pieces or techniques. Make an effort to minimise any feelings of frustration and never give up.
If you’re on the verge of quitting your instrument, you might find it helpful to check out our article on why people give up learning an instrument.
4. Playing piano is technical
Developing your technical capabilities is a huge part of learning the piano and is one of the reasons so many people find playing this instrument particularly tricky.
Remember, it can take some time for your muscles and mind to become familiar with the movements needed for more advanced techniques. Think of yourself as an athlete that trains hard and becomes faster and stronger over time.
Keep your eye on the prize and recognise that playing the piano – or any instrument for that matter – is a lifelong journey. And that’s what makes it such a rewarding undertaking.
Learn piano today
Looking for top quality piano lessons? You’ve come to the right place. Following the coveted Trinity College London music education system, our team of friendly, experienced, and inspiring piano teachers can help you reach your musical goals – whatever they may be. Contact us today on 02 9602 9774 or fill out the form on this page and we’ll be in touch soon.
