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Topic: Adult returning after LONG time off  (Read 2021 times)

Offline sprinterpd

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Adult returning after LONG time off
on: February 10, 2004, 06:07:48 AM
My first major in college was Classical performance.  STUPID!!  I was there less than a week when I realized I was out of my depth (I'm a Molecular Biologist now... :))
Anyway, that was 1986.  I had a piano for about a month last summer while a neighbor was on holiday and I dusted off the pieces I used to play.  I was SHOCKED at how well the finger memory had lasted.  Yes, lots of mistakes, yes, my fingers tired quickly, but I was thrilled to play again.  
I will shortly be in a position to purchase an instrument, but I'm wondering how to begin the "relearning" process.  
I can play Bethovan's Pathetique and Shubert Impromptus Op. 90 1-4, though certainly NOT at previous speed or accuracy.  
Here is the question:  Should I pick, perhaps ONE of my previous favorites to relearn and one completely NEW piece?  I could use Clementi Sonatinas for sight reading practice, or some such other.  
Realisticly I can plan on about 3-5 hours of practice time each week.  This is for FUN and the pure JOY of music again, but I want to see the skills come back so I want to be a "little" structured.
Cheers,
Michael

Offline chopiabin

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Re: Adult returning after LONG time off
Reply #1 on: February 10, 2004, 07:01:32 AM
That seems to be a great idea. Pull out an old piece while learning one you have always loved. This should keep you from getting bored at all and will (hopefully) continue to fan the flames of your newly found musical passion.

minsmusic

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Re: Adult returning after LONG time off
Reply #2 on: February 20, 2004, 12:32:35 PM
Way to go Michael!  We don't have to be a virtuoso to love playing the piano.  What you have in mind sounds like a great approach - old pieces, Clementi for sight reading, plus new pieces.  I'm a teacher, but love to play 'for fun' - not necessarily wanting to 'perfect' a piece.  I learn about three pieces at a time.  During my playing, I also go over pieces I already play well.  Then for a little light relief, I play some really easy pieces where I don't even have to concentrate.  
It's great playing 'just for fun' - no time limits, no deadlines, it's like eating chocolate whenever you like :D  (Wish I could do more of it - play piano, not eat chocolate ... although....)  
 

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