I dug out 3 questions I got this week.
First question…
QUESTION: I am thinking about labeling the keys on the piano until I learn them, Is there anything wrong with doing this?
ME: Why do we feel like labeling things helps us learn? In my humble but correct opinion this is really only a crutch. That most never get off of. You see…
…there are only 12 keys on the piano. They just repeat. Did you learn to drive by labeling the door, steering wheel, the ignition, the seatbelt, the tire…?
No, you just drove and all those things became obvious to you, and eventually you could drive any kind of car without thinking about it. No different with piano and songs. They are all the same once you learn how to play them.
Numero dos!
QUESTION: I want to do both your program and get regular piano lessons. Do you think I should be doing both. I’m a adult beginner?
ME: I don’t really know the right answer to this one. My gut is to say No. You shouldn’t do both. And here’s why. The “regular” piano lesson teacher will tell you that you can’t learn the way I teach and have it be correct. So then you are faced with an inner conflict which will most likely lead you to frustration.
My suggestion would be to take the “regular’ piano lessons first, until you get bored, and tired of spending lots of money, then leave the dark side for us rebel piano players over here at PianoFool. 😉
Or you could skip all the pain and go straight for the pleasure of playing. Again, by being a rebel, and skipping all the traditional stuff that keeps you from learning.
And finally… Last question.
QUESTION: I can’t seem to get my left and right hand working together. I am clumsy I guess. Any ideas?
ME: Everybody is clumsy at first. Only the dedicated who actually practice 15 minutes a day finally get rewarded when the Universe gives up fighting you one day says out of the blue,
“You again?, fine, I can’t take it anymore…let your hands work now.”
Like flipping a light switch, they start to work. It’s really awesome.
So now what?
It’s Friday night so maybe it’s best if you just stay in tonight instead of risking it by going out.
I’ve got the perfect thing to keep busy.
Heck, there’s a good chance you will be playing with both hands before Sunday. I mean, not like a professional but good enough to keep you learning. Kind of like Linda who just emailed me:
“I am tickled pink. Finished Module One and I can play “One Day AT a Time.” Still having mistakes, but getting there. It’s giving me confidence to try other songs”.
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