Where to start

[iegorval]

Hello.
I think I would really need some advices from more advanced piano players, as I have no idea on how to improve my skills. 4 years ago I finished music school (7 years total), but I was just a kid, so I didn't take it seriously, so I'm really bad with theory, and my technique is quite bad, though I can play more or less difficult pieces (if I try hard, ofc). Now after finishing that school I play just extremely rarely (last year couldn't play at all), but this month I'm trying to go back to piano.
The thing is that I really don't know how I can improve my technique in a correct way. So, if anyone can share their experience or give advices on which exercises to do or which books to read etc., I would be extremely grateful. Usually I learn a lot of things by myself (languages, science...), but with music I really don't know where should I start.
Thanks.

[mjames]

Having trouble with technique? Don't know where to start? Get a teacher.

[stevensk]

-Yes, absolutely, get a teacher 

[iegorval]

How is that people never understand that not everyone can actually afford a teacher? I'm not trying to become pro, just playing for myself, wanted to improve a bit without spending money I don't actually have.

[visitor]

How is that people never understand that not everyone can actually afford a teacher? I'm not trying to become pro, just playing for myself, wanted to improve a bit without spending money I don't actually have.

a vocation will make you money. an avocation (aka hobby) will cost you money (and time). if you do not have the resources (time, money or  both), then you may have to accept not progressing much until you are able to
1. work your budget to cut elsewhere to allow for you to invest int he coaching you need
2. increase you income to allow for you to invest in the coaching you need


your language that you 'don't want to spend money' is indicative that you don't perceive any value in investing (key word) in the coaching that can help you solve your problem. You might try to see if you get creative to lower your costs, maybe an adult begginer group class, those generally have a lower buy in and may give you some traction until you can sort out your obstacles to receiving the instruction/help you need.

[chopinlover01]

+1 to the above.

I think Josh on the forums offers free Skype lessons, for what it may be worth.

[adodd81802]

How is that people never understand that not everyone can actually afford a teacher? I'm not trying to become pro, just playing for myself, wanted to improve a bit without spending money I don't actually have.

The problem is you're trying to get professional help without playing for professional help... if that makes sense.

A forum will help you only so far, if you have no interest in it becoming anything other than a hobby, then i really don't know why you are over thinking everything at such early stages.

Ultimately, for a hobbyist, all it comes down too is - do you feel pain while playing? If so, change how you play, if not keep playing.

There are no excercises that honestly show you the right way, there are no complete theory guides that are 100% full proof for a practical subject. You could write 1000 page document on how to drive a car, you'll still stall it the first time you get in.

Here's an idea - Pianostreet have graded and instructive pieces -

https://www.pianostreet.com/piano_music/download_1/sheet_1.php

Have a look around the site, grab some music and give it a go.

PS there are actually very few hobbies requiring ZERO investment, some piano teachers do 1 - per month lessons that may be more affordable just to keep you on the right tracks.