It’s a warm, sunny day, the perfect type of day for lounging by the pool or heading to the beach. But there’s something else you can add to your summer routine – piano playing! Piano could be the start of a lifelong passion or simply a fun, seasonal hobby. Either way, here are eight tips to help you kickstart your piano playing this summer.
1. Invest in a Good Quality Keyboard or Piano
While it may be tempting to use an old family piano or a cheaper keyboard, investing in a good quality instrument can significantly improve your learning experience. A high-quality piano or keyboard will have better sound and touch, making your practice sessions more enjoyable. This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to buy a grand piano – even a digital piano can offer a good playing experience. Click here to learn more about keyboard and piano options at Music & Arts!
https://www.musicarts.com/keyboards-midi
2. Start with the Basics
Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are piano skills. Start with the fundamentals – scales, chords, and basic melodies. These building blocks are essential to understanding more complex pieces and will lay a solid foundation for your future piano playing. Consider investing in beginner piano books that will help you start right from the beginning.
https://www.musicarts.com/piano-methods
3. Establish Good Posture
Sit with a straight back, relaxed shoulders, and arms at a comfortable height. Keep your wrists level with the keys and maintain a relaxed hand position. Good posture promotes better finger control and reduces the risk of injuries or strain.
4. Practice Proper Hand Position
Place your hands on the keys with rounded fingers, keeping your fingertips on the surface. Avoid collapsing your fingers or hovering too far above the keys. Maintaining a correct hand position allows for more precise and fluid playing.
5. Develop Finger Independence
Work on exercises and techniques that enhance finger independence. Practice scales, arpeggios, and Hanon exercises to strengthen individual fingers. This will improve dexterity, agility, and control when playing more complex pieces.
6 . Focus on Rhythm and Timing
Develop a strong sense of rhythm by practicing with a metronome or rhythmic exercises. Start slowly and gradually increase the tempo. Pay attention to syncopation, accents, and note durations to achieve a precise and rhythmic performance.
https://www.musicarts.com/metronomes
7. Set a Regular Practice Schedule
Consistency is key when it comes to learning any new skill, and piano playing is no different. Make a schedule that sets aside a specific time each day for practice. This time could be right after breakfast, before bedtime, or any time that suits you. Sticking to this schedule will not only help you improve your playing skills, but it will also develop discipline and create a rewarding routine.
8. Stay Patient and Persistent
Learning to play the piano takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small achievements along the way. Stay persistent and consistent with your practice routine. Consistency and regularity will yield better results than sporadic intense practice sessions.
Remember, the journey of learning the piano is as important as the destination. Embrace the process, enjoy the music, and have fun while practicing.
Check out our blog post with Dr. Rod Vester for more tips!
Since 1952, it’s been our mission to share the magic of music with local communities. That’s why we’re proud to teach students of all ages, backgrounds, and musical interests. We’re the nation’s leading provider of private music lessons, and we’re committed to helping you thrive through music. Learn more about music lessons at Music & Arts today!