Many people are widely using string instruments simply because it is the most popular instrument – easy to learn, convenient to bring anywhere and it is cool! But learning the piano is not actually that difficult.
You just need a systematic approach on how to “self-learn” the piano. I am not saying that you will become an expert in an instant nor be able to play overnight an entire song and jam with your fave band.
No.
I actually completed my first song in 3 days, memorizing each notes and timings, and converting my sticky fingers into a flexible one.
Although I still recommend to learn the basics of the piano, there are still ways to learn how to play the piano.
Tips
- Select a song which is easy to play. When we way “easy to play”, think of a song with a few chords and minimal finger movements. For example, The Scientist by Coldplay (for the younger generation) and Here, there and everywhere by The Beatles (for the seasoned folks).
- Search in YouTube the tutorial of your chosen song. You will find many postings of piano tutorials and I find these very helpful. Remember, choose a video that shows the piano keys getting pressed or that includes falling bars (like a Tetris game) so you would know what key to press and when to transition.
- Keep playing and memorizing the keys. You should perfect a certain stanza before moving to the next one. Do not hurry. Have patience.
- Once you memorize the song, keep practicing them before going to bed and after waking up. I am very sure you will be surprised with your improvements as you progress.
Now that you have the basics of self-learning how to play the piano, you might be thinking of getting your own piano.
These are the things you may need to consider in choosing a piano
- Number of keys: 61-key electric piano is good for a beginner. But if you have a bigger pocket, I suggest you buy an 88-key electric piano.
- Action: There are 3 keybed responses. These are weighted, semi-weighted and synth. Those keybed with weighted and semi-weighted actions act similarly with the traditional one. However, those with synth act like an organ and can be played quickly because there is no resistance. Your preference will be determined by your long term goal as a piano player.
- Touch Sensitivity: This is normally one of the features of an electric piano and make sure that this is included when you buy one. Touch sensitivity refers to the ability of the key to adjust volume based on how you press it, i.e when you press harder, the sound becomes louder and when you press softer, the sound becomes softer.
- Sustain Pedal: This is optional but it would be good if you have one as you will develop finger-foot coordination. The sustain pedal, once pressed, sustains the sound until the vibration naturally ceases or until the pedal is released.
Watch my vlog in YouTube
Please check out my video. I inserted my mobile phone as AUX input to my 88-key piano so I can play Paul’s vocals and guitar in the background
I will continue to post my videos on playing piano, acoustic guitar and ukelele.
Enjoy playing!
