I have always wanted to learn how to play the piano and have never had the time or money. Now 20 I find myself in school and sometime to spare and I want to know how hard it is to play the piano. I have never played any instrument or taken any lessons. What are the basic costs of starting?? And do I have a chance of learning?

Thanks, Geoff

-- Geoff Wyatt (mojo_wyatt@hotmail.com), September 21, 2003

Answers

Hello, fellow Wyatt.

It is never too late to start studying piano. I cannot tell you that learning to play the piano is "easy" but if you find the right teacher you should find that you can make good progress if you are willing to work at it. Most of all the study of piano is very rewarding. As to the costs, you should look into either renting a piano (can be quite reasonable per month) or buying a weighted-key electric keyboard. I would recommend trying to get a real piano (see other threads posted on this bulletin board for arguments why). There will also be the cost of lessons (depends on the teacher, and the area in which you live) and the cost of books and materials (maybe about $20-$40 to start off). If you decide that you are willing (and able) to invest the neccesary time and money then I wish you the best of luck in your piano studies. Always feel free to post to this board for help and advice from professional teachers and other students.

Good luck, Kate

-- Kate Wyatt (pianojazzgirl@yahoo.ca), September 22, 2003.

Hi, never be intimidated in starting the piano. I have started at 32 years of age. Although I was able to read and understand music, being a clarinettist, I still find the piano a new experience worth having in your life. I have managed to spend an average of 1 hour every day for the past 6 years and I have just been rewarded few months ago with my first Chopin piece one of his preludes, now I am starting a second one along with the Mozart Fantasia. Don't get me wrong, if an adult start playng the clarinet in six years he/she would be already a member of a group or band (at least this is what happens with my clarinet students) but... the piano is much much harder. Nevertheless the challenge it gives me and the amount of harmonic knowledge I have accumulated in the past six years (I am still going to lesson) is rewarding and by the way it has helped in my clarinet performance. Go for it.!! Sal

-- salvatore tomasino (s.tomasino@gwc.org.uk), September 23, 2003.

It's never too late! I'm 69 and started to play at 67. I've been playing on my own for these two years and only just found a teacher. I wondered ifit was too late, if my fingers could do it, if I was really able to learn, etc.,but I am learning and I love practicing. I am retired so I have time to play. I practice two hours a day. My ife is fully supportive, but I don't want to over do it. Now that I have a teacher I find it is crucial to progress. I still have difficulties, of course, but I believe with effort I will achieve what I want and will cetainly enjoy playing for years to come.

-- Richard Lyders (rlyders@pivot.net), September 30, 2003.