So I'm going to learn piano...

BrianShort · 10-12-2003, 07:15 PM

I've decided I'd like to learn the piano. I've wanted to know how to play for several years, but never actually felt like learning. Now I finally do. I've been researching digital pianos recently, and since the only brand the local music shop sells is Korg, I am planning on picking up a Korg SP-300. I've tried out the SP-200 they had in the shop, and it sounded pretty decent to me, although I did prefer some of the Yamaha P120 samples I downloaded off the net a bit more. However, since I'm in an isolated community, it will be much more convienent to buy locally.

I am planning on taking lessons from a teacher, but I thought at first I'd try teaching myself. Does anyone have any favorite beginner lessons books for adults? I've heard Alfred's is good, but are there other similar series out? Any other recommendations, suggestions, etc?

Brian

Artur Meinild · 10-13-2003, 03:52 AM

I've been playing the piano for 15 years now so I can give you some advice regarding playing and rehearsing, although some of it may be a bit advanced - then just save the advice for later, don't rush.

1. Play scales. Practice scales every day. All kinds of scales: Chromatic, blues etc.

2. Play different genres, especially classical. I've played a lot of Michel Camilo and Chick Corea also.

3. Learn to play a melodi with both hands, both different melodies and simultaneous (not a beginners exercise).

4. Practice finger positioning. Think about this and practice it so you use the same postitioning each time.

Hmm, that's what I can come up with right now. There might be more to add, and I can't really help you about lesson books, sorry!

JustinCleveland · 10-13-2003, 10:25 AM

And learn to play by ear. You need to know that you're playing a note. I've seen a lot of people try to play who had no musical sense, and would hit a wrong note and not know it. Play rationally.

Randy Tennison · 10-13-2003, 10:37 AM

Brian,

Here is my advise. If you want to be a pianist, then, by all means, learn scales, take lessons, and follow the standard method. Absolutely nothing wrong with it. I wish I had stuck with it as a child.

If you want to learn to make music, then I would suggest learning from a different standpoint. There are many wonderful keyboards that allow you to make great sounding music, without the years of training necessary to become a pianist. Auto accompniant keyboards, learning keyboards, follow lights, etc., will allow you to learn to play, learn notes, learn chords, but will make music that is pleasing, rather than the 2 years of simple piano songs you will play in the traditional method. If you have a local piano/organ shop, they can surely recommend someone who can teach to that method. I worked for a major piano/organ store years ago, and I know that older people are rarely interested in spending the time it takes to learn piano "properly". It can be very frustrating. They simply want the fun and joy of making music.

And, IMHO, there is no better piano or keyboard around than Yamaha (yeah, I know, Steinway is better, but then again, who can afford a Steinway). The digitals are great sounding, sturdy and fun to play.

Have fun. From one keyboardist to a future keyboardist, knock em dead!

MarkHastings · 10-13-2003, 01:49 PM

I agree with what Randy said (except the Yamaha being the best keyboard - Roland ROCKS!

), but the frustrations can be your downfall. I'd also suggest maybe getting one of those play along Keyboards too, unless you are really committed to sticking with the lessons.

The most frustrating thing for people who want to learn an instrument (that aren't starting as kids) is to want to become good, fast. This is why I've never been able to play guitar, I picked one up too late in life and kept getting frustrated when I couldn't play it right away.

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Peter Kline · 10-13-2003, 02:26 PM

I suggest you learn to play the piano. Learning "piano" is too difficult a language!

MarkHastings · 10-13-2003, 02:30 PM

Peter, F - C - Ab - C# - D - E - B....Oh wait,

Translation: "You're right".

Mark Shannon · 10-13-2003, 02:39 PM

I played the piano for about 4 years, and finally decided to stop taking lessons about 2 years ago ($23 per group lesson is too expensive... if it were 1 on 1, it would be worth it. Those were about $30-40 though)

Well going into grade 11, I relized that I still needed to take an arts credit, so I opted for Music class. Having the knowledge I got from piano is so helpful, because, playing the Alto Sax, it's easy for me to sight read, and get a grasp of all the notes.

So even if you don't stick with it (but please do) it'll always come in handy.

Angelo.M · 10-13-2003, 03:16 PM

Brian:

Congratulations. I can't imagine what my life would be like if I didn't play the piano.

Are you committed to the digital piano? Nothing--not the best hammer-action digital keyboard I've tried--beats the feel of a decent acoustic piano. Experiencing the percussion of an acoustic is, I think, vital to developing your playing style.

Holadem · 10-13-2003, 03:27 PM

How much would a cheaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaap acoustic piano cost?

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H