how far can you go without being taught?

[allchopin]

What would you expect out of someone who has had very little of no piano teaching in their life? (just an innocent question)

[rachfan]

Richter was almost entirely self taught.  When he studied with Neuhaus,  Richter was so accomplished by then that Neuhaus saw his job as one of coaching by presenting some suggestions rather than teaching per se.  However, I see this kind of situation as the rare exception.  A serious pianist has a far better chance of learing the fundamentals, theory, technique and repertoire under the guidance or one or more excellent teachers in my opinion.  

[MeLisa]

IMO.. you will go nowhere without a teacher... I am sure those self taught famous pianists must have a mentor, or a pianist he could watch or listen to. You will have no idea what a piano is capable of in the hands of competent pianist if you learn on your own and has no pianist to refer to.