Play Piano Like a PRO!

Monday, March 17, 2008

How to Play the Piano - For Adults Only!

You’re never too old to start learning how to play the piano. There are SO many online instruction programs today, that I know it can be very confusing. It is my intent that this article will shed some light into your search to find the most appropriate course for your specific needs.

At first, I strongly suggest that you do some deep soul searching and decide what style of music you want to REALLY play. There are so many styles of music and at this stage in your life; you should only focus on the style of music that you really enjoy.

Second, decide how much time you want to spend learning to play the piano. Now, if you’re only concerned with playing with the least amount of mental and physical effort, I advise you to seriously consider purchasing an inexpensive keyboard that offers instrumental accompaniment features. You don’t need to “take lessons” for this type of recreational enjoyment.

These electronic keyboards usually provide a manual that shows you how to build very easy chords. Additionally, these electronic keyboards also include accompaniment styles, (i.e. Rock, Pop, Jazz, Polka, etc). As a matter of fact, some keyboards guide you through the learning process by providing keys that “light up” to help you land on the correct note!

Third, if you’re really interested in learning how to make music on the piano, and can consistently set aside at least 15 to 30 minutes a day, then you should definitely continue your search for the online program that speaks to your specific needs and lifestyle.

The Majority of Play Piano Review Sites Are Not Credible


Always remember that any “review site” was designed to make money from the web sites their reviewing. Believe ME! As smart business people, they are affiliates of all sites being reviewed. As such, no matter what site the customer decides to purchase through, they make an affiliate commission.

Their ultimate goal is to realize a return on their investment (ROI). Whatever piano lesson site makes them the most money, they will declare them to be the “best pick.” My sites have been in number one positions, through a number of review sites and as soon as another site allows them to make more money, my site is instantly ranked lower.

Pay close attention to web sites that appear in the “organic” rankings; not those on the “sponsored links” on the right side of a search engine. Affiliates and web site owners pay for those sponsored ads through “Pay Per Click” services. Those ads are just screaming “PICK ME!”

A passionate, credible and competent piano instructor will have written articles on piano pedagogy. Just do a “GOOGLE” search on the instructor’s name, to determine if this teacher has written articles on the subject.

The Learning Curve for Adult Students


The most difficult challenge you will face in your study is the ability to play in time. But there is hope. Just remember, YOU HAVE TO COUNT OUT LOUD in the beginning. Once your body starts “feeling” the pulse of the music, you won’t have to continue this verbal exercise. 

The less difficult challenge is to discipline your self to practice slowly. ALL professional pianists practice slowly when learning a new PATTERN. If you don’t, you will forget the material you’ve practiced the NEXT DAY!

The GOOD NEWS!


Any adult can learn to play any style of piano they wish. Just make sure you set aside time to practice consistently. All it takes is just about 15 to 30 daily. Don’t practice in 1-hour spurts! If you’re serious about learning to play, only concentrate on the style of music you want to play, and don’t give up!

You can do it, and I know you can because my adult students are achieving success everyday, worldwide!

To your success,

Ron Worthy

Saturday, March 15, 2008

How to Play the Piano - Practice Rhythm Changes!


It is VERY important to practice "rhythm changes" regardless of your level of experience.  
To play piano by ear and start creating music, you should focus on learning rhythm changes because you will learn 12 chords, within that key.
You will also, learn substitute chords and passing harmonies that you can use to add "spice" to some of your favorite songs.
It's been said that the great Jazz Sax Player, Charlie "Bird" Parker, practiced his improvisations using rhythm changes.  He would practice them in ALL 12 keys.
So, if you're serious about learning to play the piano, don't be a slave to "accompaniment tracks" or be glued to 10 or 15 "how to" DVDs.
All you need is one or two videos that illustrate a concept and go and practice!
I guarantee if you just learn the rhythm change sequence in C Major, and memorize it, you will be another pianist in a week!
My online How to Play the Piano e-Book serves as your textbook for LIFE!  And remember VIDEOS are embedded in the eBook.
To your success,
Ron