A beginner wants some help

[mazer]

Hey everyone,
we have the upright piano (is it called that?) at home, which my little brother is playing and I thought why not start learning it also. I've been playing guitar for almost 3 years now, recently took up bass guitar. I know some basic theory, like triads, how to form chords, keys and maybe something else. But I have no idea where do start. Also, recently, I've been using my ear to figure out songs. Thought I'll start the same way for piano. But in this case, could you suggest any songs? Or is it a good way to start learning the piano anyway?

[nataliethepianist]

The best way (in my opinion) is to start learning with a teacher instead of trying to teach yourself. This is the time where many people pick up bad habits that are hard to get rid of later (I should know!)

I recommend you buy I beginner book full of pieces, you can find that music stores, as well as a theory book if your teacher feels the need for you to learn them!

Once you become more advanced you can start learning pieces by classical composer, such a Fur Elise and Canon in D.

Good luck with your studies!

- Natalie

[fred792k]

Here's a list of easy but nice pieces.

Chopin Prelude no. 7 op. 28.
Bach Prelude in C major BWV 846.
Beethoven Moonlight Sonata mvt. 1.
Mozart Minuets.
Kuhlau Sonatinas.

Good luck with you're studies!

[mazer]

Could you suggest something more modern, if that's said correctly? And do you think learning from a book is a good idea? Sure, I thought of getting a teacher, but I don't have the time.
And personally, Isaac Shepard inspired me to start learning piano. How long would it take me to learn his pieces? Listening by ear, they don't seem so hard.

[nanabush]

Using your ear is good, but you'd owe it to yourself to learn to read notes.

It's not necessary to have a teacher, especially if you are really just doing it for fun.  (don't flame me people; some people really just casually want to learn an instrument, like me with the guitar)

A method book wouldn't be a bad idea, and I'm sure any questions of yours that come up can be answered on the forum.

Buy an easy songbook of pop music, movie music, whatever you want (easy! ask at the store for recommendations if you aren't sure), and maybe a beginner book.  Work through some and see how much you can do on your own.  At that point (maybe 20-25 dollars later) you might have an idea if you want a teacher or not. 

[john90]

If you know the basic theory, can read a bit of music (base and treble), have no time for lessons, try the first movement of Fur Elise (Google it, listen on you tube once you have the music). I think the arpeggio style and movement is perfect for starters. If you get somewhere, something recognisable, try and get a couple of lessons to make sure your posture is OK. Then go straight on to something like Isaac Glass "Leaves in the Wind". Get the music, and try each hand separately to start with. If you are doing it for fun, and if it is fun, keep going!

[redwing2024]

....

Looks like i found someone who has a problem just like me.. 

[mazer]

Sorry for bringing the thread up, but wanted to ask, if you know any good books to learn from?

[nocturneop2]

I've been using Alfred's Adult Piano Course for a couple months now. I'm not great at playing the piano yet, but it's a good start. There are 3 levels and they go for about 10 dollars each on Amazon if I remember correctly.

[elzbietaj]

Neil Miller "The piano lessons book" - the book is really grat (even for persons who DO have a teacher). Some theory, lot of practice, easy reading - I trully recommend it for all adult beginners.

[mazer]

One more thing. Aside from the goal of playing Isaac Shepard's music, my kinda long term goal is to be able to play and improvise jazz on the piano also. Can you guide me regarding my jazz studies?

[mazer]

I got a question. Is possible to learn a style just by listening to it and transcribing it a lot, as well as improvising over the certain style?

[mrphan]

Hey Pal, let me start off by telling you one thing... You know that music is an awesome thing...So DON'T GIVE UP! If you already know the basics, picking up piano shouldn't be that hard. Start by learning the key names and then work your way up...i've been playing for years now and i'll tell you...its not easy but it was worth learning! Keep at it ok...if you have any questions email me at Contact@pianohereandnow.com,i can help you with any questions you got you can also check out my site as a learning reference take care and good luck! ... https://www.pianohereandnow.com

[keyboardclass]

The diagram below from yer man above's site is totally wrong.  You should not curl your fingers.  They should be curved as they are when naturally hanging at your side.  Keeping them curled is just adding unnecessary tension.