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Friday, January 30, 2009

Thinking About Piano Lessons? Here's Some Tips

By Shila Kevan

The piano is an instrument that is much loved and in demand all over the world because it is fairly straightforward to learn for beginners of all ages. This multipurpose instrument is a staple in many schools world wide because it can be used to accompany solo or singing groups, a stand-alone instrumental performance or orchestra of musicians, or as a pianist performing alone in concert. Piano can be used as an introductory musical instrument for young students beginning music training, or they can continue on with piano study and become very good pianists.

The advantage of learning piano is that it is available and effective for people of all ages, including very young children to the elderly. In the beginning, learning piano is entertaining as students progress almost immediately and it gives the student self-confidence. Nowadays there are various software programs, videos, and audios that students can use and learn how to play piano right away.

Many people opt to take music lessons in order to learn to play the piano and you can find out where people offer music lessons by scanning the classifieds section of your local newspaper or phone directory. You can also look for music lessons at local schools and churches and see if they are able to refer you to someone else. One of the best ways to find a teacher is to ask friends that have children who are good piano students for their teacher's name as a referral.

When you research and locate music teachers, keep in mind that most of them charge different rates and have their own policies regarding lessons or classes. You will find that a teacher who charges more than others may not necessarily be better than everyone else, as it is often a matter of attitude and feelings of self-worth. People should also be aware that because someone charges less than other instructors does not mean that they are not as good or successful as the expensive teachers.

You can also chose to study with tutorials accessible on the Internet created by an successful expert teacher. While it's a money saver for most courses, you probably will have access to the teacher's email address if you need to have answers for a problem. When you study any instrument on your own online, the benefits are saving the weekly costs of lessons and the ability to learn when and where you want.

When you start out learning how to play the piano, you will find out that every method has its own advantages and disadvantages. You have to figure out the best method for your own personal requirements. When you start out learning how to play the piano, you will need access to a piano or a keyboard in your home so that you can practice whenever you need to.

If you an undecided beginner but would like to give the piano a try, buy a 61 key keyboard to start. There are keyboards available online or go to your local electronics or discount store so you can try playing some of the keyboards. Many people are now buying a compact 88 key digital piano, which is a combination of a keyboard and an acoustic piano.

After you buy your instrument, the next thing you need is a fine piano instructor who is willing to work with you and set goals for you. Think positive and stop criticizing yourself while you are progressing. If you are motivated and are willing to ask your teacher questions, and if you are able to set aside time to practice you will be well on your way to become a fine pianist.

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