What is the best piano method for beginning adults?

Question

I am an adult who wishes to take piano lessons - is their a clear concensus on piano teaching methodology? I desire to be able to play classical pieces, as well as be able to read down a jazz chart!

Answer 1

Play Piano In a Flash - Even If You Don't Know Where Middle C Is

So, you've been dying to play the piano. But you don't want to spend years learning how to read music. Of course you don't! And you won't have to IF you learn a chord-based approach to playing the piano.

Here's a method I use to get my students playing piano in a flash. First, you need to learn a few chords. But not just any chord type. No. The chord type I have my students learn first is something called the open position chord. And with it, you'll be able to create your own unique music right away!

The open position chord is exactly what its name implies. It's a chord structure that covers more than 2 octaves of the keyboard AND uses both hands right away. If you don't know what an octave is, not to worry. Suffice it to say that 2 octaves are over 16 white keys. It's a handful to play this chord structure but once you master it, you'll be well on your way to unlocking the secrets of keyboard harmony.

So, how exactly can we use this chord to create music with? Easy. Take a look at my free piano lesson "Reflections in Water" (available by clicking below.) The first thing you notice about this lesson is that it's unusual. It's not your typical piano lesson by far. In fact, you might even think it looks like an art lesson - and you'd be right! I specifically designed the lessons using a step by step approach that many art instruction books use.

The lesson contains four open position piano chords with fingering diagrams. The beautiful thing about this chord structure is that once you master it, you can easily use it to play ALL the chords in all 12 keys. The first thing I ask you to do is play the chords - first all tones together (solid chords) and then with the tones broken up (broken chords.)

Once you have this chord structure under your fingers and you've developed a muscle memory for it, the rest is easy!

In the lesson "Reflections in Water," we use this chord structure to improvise a few minutes of music. The chord progression is laid out for you and all you have to do is simply follow along. I also provide audio examples so you can hear how I used the same chords to improvise with.

If you really want to play piano in a flash and don't want to wait, try the open position piano chord. You won't be disappointed!

Answer 2

Your question is strange. Let me pose one to you: What is a good way to learn how to drive? I hear taking lessons is bad for you because once you complete them, your instructor leaves and you don't know where to go. The reason I give you this example is because the method you start with is just that. It's a beginning. You need the best STARTING method you can find, not one that will take you from nothing to performing in Carnegie Hall. Every great musician (except for Mozart) started in baby steps and grew. As they grew, the materials they used changed. In short, I would look for the leading methods. Fabers' Adult Method is probably #1 for a reason. Once you have completed the method, move on to literature. Don't follow the method like it's a box that has no room to explore. YOU are responsible for your growth as a musician. Good luck.

Answer 3

i would say don't bother with lessons

go to a music shop (the kind that sells instruments) and ask for books to start you off

i went the route of lessons only to find i was playing the same stuff as the kids over and over again (i was mid 30s at the time) and not learning anything new and being charged a wad for it

i found books that were titled things like 'beginner piano for adults' that took me from scratch to being able to play simple tunes with both hands together (that cost less than 2 lessons!)

then more books that had classics written in simple piano tunes that were easy enough to play with both hands after a little practice

also get some books with scales in - that will help with your keys and note combinations that you will need in jazz

hoping that helps

Answer 4

Does music run in your family? A lot of times people who have musical backgrounds usually have a better understanding and grasp quicker. If you do not have it in you there is a chance you won't succeed! I am not trying to be ignorant but I am trying to be realistic. I am self taught and cannot read a note! I came from a family who were musicians.so my talent is inherited. Playing by ear as far as I know is the best because then you are original and do not have to copy someone elses work. If you take lessons ask your teacher if he or she will guarantee that you will be a good pianist! Or refund your money! I think you know the answer to that Good LUCK

Answer 5

having played piano for 37 years (and violin for 35), and having taught both piano and violin to children and adults, i'll say the best method of teaching an adult is the adult's motivation for learning...

there is no clear-cut, sure-fire method of learning the piano...it's all about enjoyment of the instrument and your motivation to learn the notes, learn to read music, then practice practice practice practice practice practice practice practice practice practice practice practice

Answer 6

Since I was little I have always wanted to play. I’m now 38 years old, have never played, and with this program I was able to go through the books and videos step by step and now I’m purchasing piano books to play songs to enjoy. Learn here https://tr.im/PianoForAll
I have to say that my husband was very skeptical but now he is a true believer in this teaching program

Answer 7

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Answer 8

play with someone who can play. squish ya butt on the chair beside them and play a song together. you use one half they us the other. its more fun too.