Next step in becoming a better player

[goldy54]

I'm new here and feel very confident I'm in the right place. I have had no formal piano training, however, been figuring out how to play on my own. I play three other instruments fairly well, which has been helpful in playing a few songs on the piano. Looking to learn more without a tremendous commitment of time. Any suggestions on how I should proceed? would greatly appreciate any input.

[mussels_with_nutella]

Hi Goldy. I am also self-taught on piano, so I can help you a bit.

Firstly, you should achieve a great flexibility with the right hand. I recommend you improvising and learning fast tunes (but only on right hand )

Secondly, you should synchronise both hands. Choose easy songs. I recommend you songs like 007 and mission impossible's tune & rhythm, and ending with the "lady madonna tutorial" of pianojohn.

Thirdly, you should learn classical pieces. For example, I learnt slavische tanzé op. 72 no.2 but fot two hands. Search it on youtube (four hands) and in IMSLP (arrangement for 2 hands). It's a marvellous song.

Fourthly, try improvising with both hands. Try to gain speed, flexibility, jumps with your arms, running along the keybord, etc etc... and changing chords fast! Try to train both hands at the same level.

Finally, look for cool but truely difficult pieces to learn, and the most important thing, keep in mind what you want for yourself. For example, for me is playing Rachmaninov piano concerto 2. I am in this last stage, so wish me luck as I wish it for you!

[goldy54]

Thanks Mussels, Sounds like great advice as I will give it a try. I can get the single notes fairly well, it's the chords that are a big problem. The few chords I know have derived from the notes I play on guitar chords. I don't even know if they are right...although they sound ok to me. I'll let you know if the other suggestions you made work!