A proficiency quextion...

[alemor]

  I have been playing piano for 3 years since the age of about 11 years. However, as much as I love the music for the sake of the music, I also don't want to fall behind my piano-playing peers. What are the average expectations of a 3-year player? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Right now I am working on Chopin's "Minute Waltz" (Op. 64 No. 1) and am also wondering what would be best to attempt learning next.

[pianomann1984]

That's a tough one!  I was told as a conservatoire student that, being surrounded by many outstanding peers, it is impossible to concern myself with keeping up with all of them!  So you have to look to yourself...there's not really a prescribed learning curve for 'standard of playing' against 'no. of years studied.'  The best guide is that if you are happy with the progress you are making currently..then continue as you are doing.  If you're not, then work harder!  It's as simple as that.  Your peers can only respect you for being self motivated.  Enjoy it..that's what it's there for!

Best of Luck

PS.  As for what to try next...there's a wealth of repertoire out there for you!  go to your local library/music store and just browse 'till you find something you like the look of.  It doesnt matter if its a bit too hard...its good to push yourself, and even if you cant learn it now...you can shelve it and learn it when you're ready.  The best research you can do is to look and read 'till you find your thing.  If you like Chopin, look at more Chopin (ie Preludes/Mazurkas/Nocturnes/smaller polonaises), and/or music by John Field or early Scriabin preludes/etudes.  Whatever you like..its all good!