There are generally two paths people take with the piano. Some start young with regular lessons, progressing through grades and learning pieces chosen by their teacher.
Then there are the self-taught – those who may have had lessons but stopped, or never had the opportunity, learning through their own patience and perseverance.
Sometimes, self-taught pianists feel they've missed out compared to those with formal instruction, which can unfortunately impact their confidence.
But don't underestimate the power of being self-taught. Often, the driving force for these individuals is a deep love for specific piano music they want to bring to life themselves. Think of it this way: "I play piano music" rather than just "I play the piano."
While lessons with a good teacher are incredibly beneficial for many, self-taught learners develop a unique skill: finding their own technical solutions. Their love for the music fuels the hard work required. In fact, a self-taught pianist deeply passionate about their music has a significant advantage over someone who takes lessons but lacks that same connection to the repertoire.
Every piano teacher knows that the music students enjoy listening to is often different from what they play in lessons. But if the music you love to listen to is the same music you want to play, whether you have a teacher or learn independently, know that you possess everything you need within you. Embrace your journey and feel confident in your abilities.
Paul Barton
Playing the Piano vs. Playing Piano Music
There are generally two paths people take with the piano. Some start young with regular lessons, progressing through grades and learning pieces chosen by their teacher.
Then there are the self-taught – those who may have had lessons but stopped, or never had the opportunity, learning through their own patience and perseverance.
Sometimes, self-taught pianists feel they've missed out compared to those with formal instruction, which can unfortunately impact their confidence.
But don't underestimate the power of being self-taught. Often, the driving force for these individuals is a deep love for specific piano music they want to bring to life themselves. Think of it this way: "I play piano music" rather than just "I play the piano."
While lessons with a good teacher are incredibly beneficial for many, self-taught learners develop a unique skill: finding their own technical solutions. Their love for the music fuels the hard work required. In fact, a self-taught pianist deeply passionate about their music has a significant advantage over someone who takes lessons but lacks that same connection to the repertoire.
Every piano teacher knows that the music students enjoy listening to is often different from what they play in lessons. But if the music you love to listen to is the same music you want to play, whether you have a teacher or learn independently, know that you possess everything you need within you. Embrace your journey and feel confident in your abilities.
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