I first started taking piano lessons when i was 7 and have had a total of 3 teachers. The first one was focused on fundamentals and learning the basics. The second one was mostly focused on playing pieces, with less focus on the technical aspects. The third one focused on more advanced techniques and correcting mistakes from my 2nd teacher.
I stopped taking lessons when I was around 16. Since I was still in school and doing other club activities, I started getting overwhelmed.
Now that I’m on my own, I’ve thought about taking piano lessons again. And there are a few factors to consider. I’ve included a list of pros and cons of taking keyboard lessons.
Why I’m concerned about taking piano lessons again:
Cost
As I mentioned, I’ll be paying for these lessons myself, as well as the gas to get there. I want to make sure that
- it fits in my budget
- I choose the right keyboard instructor
- I’ll see progress that’s worthwhile
Time
As for lesson time, I would probably only want one 30-minute piano lesson per week.
I get off of work pretty late, and I do want to keep my Saturdays free if possible. However, I took lessons on Saturdays in the past, so if I need to, I can do this again.
Additionally, there’s the time I’ll need to spend actually practicing the lesson. So that I don’t overburden myself, I’ll start by putting this at 15 minutes per day, 5 days a week.
Will I actually practice?
In the past, I’ve had issues with committing to keyboard practice on a regular basis. Now I’m working and taking care of other adult responsibilities.
If I don’t make the time to practice regularly, I’m concerned that these lessons may end up being a waste.
What I’ll gain by taking keyboard lessons again:
Learn the fundamentals
There are a lot of basics that I missed when I was taking piano lessons for 8+ years. For example,
- sight reading
- importance of finger placement
- theory
This is the main reason why I want to take lessons again, to learn these properly.
Structure when learning to sight read music
As mentioned above, my sight-reading skills are nonexistent. I tried printing some exercises and practicing on my own for like 3 days. I was actually improving, but then I quit.
So, my thought process is that the structure of lessons may help me to stay motivated.
Structure when learning songs/pieces
One thing I loved about taking piano lessons before, was the structure that came when learning a song. My instructor would tell me to learn a certain section. Then I’d have until the next lesson to do it. Now, when I try to learn a song on my own, I usually give up on it after a bit.
I’d like to have that structure again.
Learning proper technique
It’s different watching a YouTube tutorial, versus having someone in-person teach technique. I want real-time feedback about my posture, finger movement, arpeggios, etc. I also want to know why having the wrong finger placement is a problem, and things like that.
A YouTube tutorial can’t give me the kind of feedback I’m looking for.
Increased confidence playing keyboard in public
I’ll be more confident when playing on stage because I know I’ll have a better grasp on keyboard fundamentals, technique, and other skills.
Why?
Cause I don’t want someone to ridicule me for being wrong. Also, I worry that whatever I teach myself could be wrong (like a chord or something), and then it won’t sound right. So, I would rather be criticized for it by one professional in a room rather than be embarrassed in front of 4-5 professionals on stage.
Wow, now there’s a spill of insecurity for you.
Learn new music styles
I think it’d be cool to see someone playing jazz on a piano, explain what they’re doing, and how I should start to reach the level I want to be.
Different music styles use different chords, playing patterns, techniques, etc. So, the more well-versed I am with these, the more well-rounded I’ll be as a musician.
Conclusion
So, it turns out there’s a lot going into taking piano lessons again after being out of them for a while. My main concern is that I won’t be able to make the time commitment outside of those lessons. At that point, taking lessons would almost be useless.
However, I’ll build the fundamentals and skills that I lacked before. As a result, I’ll be more confident as a musician, and become a better keyboard player all around.
What are your thoughts on taking piano lessons again as an adult?
Also, if you’re interested in another post, check out this one about my favorite keyboard instrument presets.
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