Common Challenges of Learning To Play the Piano in Adulthood and How To Overcome Them

Results from countless studies over several decades acknowledge that learning to play a musical instrument can benefit people of all ages. Unfortunately, for many, learning to play the piano is a lifelong dream, unrealized due to childhood fickleness or competing obligations. Still, if you are one of many adults who wish they could play the, piano you will likely face these challenges. Fortunately, facing them and moving through them will make you a better pianist and enhance your enjoyment of music.

Finding a Teacher

Regardless of your age, having a good rapport with your piano teacher will ensure that you learn in a way that suits you. Finding a teacher is a common challenge that you can easily overcome. You can start by asking friends or relatives if they can recommend a teacher. Alternatively, you can refer to the Music Teachers National Association website to find a certified teacher in your area. A local music school or piano dealer can also offer valuable insights to help you find a good match. Finally, consider taking sample lessons from about three teachers before choosing one.

Learning To Read Music

Learning to read a musical score provides the foundation for playing the piano. Unless you first learn to identify notes, key and time signatures, clefs, and dynamics, will not achieve your musical goals or play music to sound as intended. Understanding basic music theory concepts will also improve your ability to read a score. Fortunately, the layout of a piano's white and black keys makes it easy to identify their corresponding notes on a staff. Still, learning to read music can take time, but it is well worth putting in the effort early on to ensure a more enjoyable piano playing experience later.

Coordinating Your Hands

During any given day, you probably perform tasks requiring contrasting body movements and hand-eye coordination. Examples may include typing, dribbling a basketball, and driving. Muscle memory is critical for executing these tasks and playing the piano with two hands. Try practicing each hand's part separately until you master it before playing with both hands. As you progress to playing more challenging pieces, your hands will become accustomed to performing independently.

Finding Time To Practice

You can overcome this common challenge of learning to play the piano by not being too ambitious early on. Practicing consistently, even for just ten minutes per day, can have a more lasting impact than practicing for two hours once per week. Consider fitting a short practice session into your routine either before or after something else you do daily, such as preparing dinner or before leaving for work. Your daily practice session will become a habit and eventually, you may want to extend it.

Self-Criticism

If you are new to playing the piano, you may dream of one day playing some of your favorite music without making a mistake. However, you may struggle to get through most pieces error-free. Remind yourself that mistakes will help you learn to avoid them in the future. Also, ask your piano teacher to recommend some pieces you can learn to play perfectly. These can be the most simple pieces, but mastering them will boost confidence and inspire you to tackle more challenging music.

Physical Concerns

Many people let arthritis or other physical limitations stand in the way of learning to play the piano. While you may struggle with demanding repertoire, focusing your attention on playing music that you enjoy within the scope of your capabilities can be fulfilling and beneficial to your physical and mental well-being.

As an adult, learning to play the piano can take you on a journey you may not anticipate. You have nothing to lose but so much to gain.