I want to be a pianist, but how?

[callaeie]

I play piano, and practice in a non-serious way, but I don't perform. It's my fault, really, but I also need some direction for WHERE I can perform and HOW.

I took piano for something like 11 years from a teacher, since I was six, and now I'm twenty-two. I feel very old (haha) but I'm still going to pursue (soon) a bachelors in music, I've decided. But in the meantime, I would like to get some real-life experience playing piano, I just don't know how to start. I performed a lot more during high school for festivals and recitals, but now I feel really REALLY hesitant to do it on my own. That's silly, isn't it!

So, what kind of experience should I look for, the kind that I can use so people will actually want to pay me to play for them? Where should I start.....? thanks:)

[goldentone]

Well Callaeie, the place to start is by practicing seriously and developing a repertoire.  The hesitancy to perform I don't think is silly at all, but given what you say, quite possibly an indication that you aren't ready yet.  I would consider finding a good teacher, which most everyone here on the forum would agree.  I would give myself some time, and then you could have a house concert.  I am serious about piano, and for the near future I have my eye set for a local recital.  Set out in your aspiration reasonably and build.

[soitainly]

 I don't know much about the piano community as my main instrument is guitar. The local classical guitar society has a couple of open play situations each month and I play at those, as well as a couple of charity functions associated with the society or people I have met there. I don't know of any similar events in the piano community. I would imagine the piano community to be much bigger in numbers, all it takes is someone to organize a get together. Find a local bar or restaurant that might let you organize a monthly open play during off hours, weekend afternoons are slow times so any extra business should be welcome. You may have to provide a digital piano though, not that many places have a piano ready to play. Maybe I am just not in the loop but it seems like there is a void waiting to filled, lots of pianists of all levels with no place to play. All it takes is someone to get the ball rolling.

 Another option is to take lessons from a studio or maybe a junior college, many will have organized recitals.

 If you have a digital piano you could also just show up at a general open mic as well. You might have to scope some out and see what type of music is played. Piano would fit in well with an acoustic or songwriter type venue, you might not do as well with a place that features a blues, rock, or jazz jam format.

 If you are talking about getting payed gigs then the competition is going to be heavy. You aren't just competing with other pianists but essentially with every other form of entertainment out there. That being said you aren't going to be dicovered if people don't hear your music. You have to play for people any and every chance you can get, whether it be an open mic or showing videos over the internet. I hate to state the obvious, but if you want to play for people, you have to play music that people like.

[asiantraveller101]

I performed a lot more during high school for festivals and recitals, but now I feel really REALLY hesitant to do it on my own. That's silly, isn't it!

Not silly. You are fearful of yourself. The wall is build up by your own defense mechanism, because you are apprehensive of the truth. On one hand you have dream of becoming of pianist, but the subconscious side of you is hesitant, afraid that you might not be good enough and you will fail. The fear of not being able to become a pianist has become a handicap and thus the procrastination. Be truthful to yourself. Say affirmations to yourself daily and tell your higher self that this what you really want and that all fears of failures will fade, and you will become who you want to be. I know it sounds "hocus-pocus", but do try it. It helps to reconcile your inner conflicts.

So, what kind of experience should I look for, the kind that I can use so people will actually want to pay me to play for them? Where should I start.....? thanks:)
[/quote]

You will not get any paying gigs yet, since you want to gain experience. Yes, it be better if you get paid, but that should not be your concern now. Now is the time you want to work hard, build up your technique and repertoire, and start networking. Get yourself out there. Perform whenever you can: in churches, local festivals, recital series, competitions, masterclasses, etc. You can even do some self-promoting by giving some solo or joint recitals in local avenues, like the libraries, and churches. When you enter your university, try out all the different opportunities that come along. Universities get a lot of information regarding all the stuff I said above. Experience is crucial to you. You cannot be shy, be "thick-skin".
So, work hard, and I wish all the best!
PS. You're not old. I started my Bachelor when I was 23.

[m1469]

 I am serious about piano, and for the near future I have my eye set for a local recital.

Would you ever consider a live stream like Wolfi? 

[callaeie]

This is great, guys, thanks:)