returning to piano and have question

[jedho]

I took piano lessons about 30 years ago (didn't quite finish level 1), and now at age 62 I am returning. Before the lessons, I did fool around on my own for a number of years and had some beginner books. I really regret that I didn't go further years ago, though. Well, I started practiced for a month on my own and found out I had forgotten almost all the songs I previously knew, so I found a teacher (she's older than me) and have been taking lessons now for 5 mos. It's l/2 hour, once a week. I have a good musical ability, practice every day and am progressing. But now I'm wondering how many different piano books at one time should a person have?

Here's what I've been working with: just finishing Michael Aaron, Grade 1 (I did him with my last teacher, but we aren't continuing with him as she says he gets too hard, too fast); John W. Schaum, Book A (did this with my last teacher; almost finished and going to use his Book B next); Bastien Hymn Favorites, Level 1 (a few more pieces to do);  Michael Aaron Adult Piano Course, Book One (I used to play in this years ago; holding off on this as it speeded up in difficulty too fast after p. 46); James Bastien, The Older Beginner Piano Couse, Level 2. She also has been teaching me about scales and chords.

She has me do one song a week from each book (practice it 3 times). She likes to use several different books because they all "teach something different" but I'm wondering why we don't stick to say 2 books by 2 different authors? In one way, I'm wanting to learn more, but maybe not from so many different books at once. Or do beginners need lots of variety from different composers when beginning? Is this routine?

[m1469]

Variety generally helps a person to develop a broader flexibilty and facility at the instrument.  However, I feel that a student's willingness and ability to focus is one of the most essential ingredients toward progress.   Some people can actually focus on variety, some people are confused by it.  And, this changes for the individual at different times throughout their study.   

If it's merely a matter of whether you trust your teacher's guidance or not, there is only one way to really know what it's actually worth :  Try it and find out .

So happy you have returned to the piano, and it's great to have you on the forum.


m1469

[jedho]

m1469, thanks for your helpful input. I'll see how I do as I progress in level 2. I don't feel confused with all the books, but perhaps I am just at the point where things are a little rougher as a result of having to move my hands (without looking) in order to find other keys. I know it will eventually be second nature, so to speak. I'm determined to advance this time around. I certainly could kick myself for not continuing with lessons years ago.

[m1469]

Jedho, I am happy that you found my reply helpful to you, and it sounds like you have a plan.  Remember, your job is to learn how to learn, so pay attention to what is working for you and what is not.

I understand the temptation to regret, but I am sure you have had some wonderful experiences over these years that have made your life quite rich.  Also, I am sure that much of the life-knowledge you have gained can be used toward your piano study.  It can be really fun to link things together for yourself, it's what makes you your own unique artist (which nobody in the world can duplicate).  Nobody can do that stuff for you, exactly, and nobody knows quite what all you have going on inside of you, besides you.  And you will discover more of it by doing something you really love, and something that requires you to dig into who you are and what life is.

Also, the piano has no idea what your level of experience is, how many years you have been playing (or took off), nor does it know your age or gender.  It is not judging you.  As a matter of fact, it is begging you to play it, because that's the only way it lives out it's destiny...  .  I know, I know... maybe it seems corny, but I can't help it... it's just true .

Your space at the piano is like a mirror, and whatever your mental state is while practicing your music, will be practiced as part of your musical experience.  It's important to keep that space full with only the things that will propel you forward, if you truly want to progress.

Best wishes in your study .

m1469