[Guest Author: Dan Maynard is a classically trained pianist, music composer and publisher of a site that reviews pianos. Dan also dedicates time to his other passion in life, reading and studying Internet marketing.]
This article is specifically dedicated to parents who seek answers to commonly asked questions related to piano lessons. As the owner of a piano website I am often asked questions by parents who are seeking advice on piano lessons and selection of piano.
What type of piano training should my child take?
I would recommend classical piano lessons as it forms the basis of and teaches the fundamentals of music. Having a sound grounding in classical piano and music theory serves as the foundations for other musical styles that your child can develop in the future.
Given the importance of learning classical piano, not every child will gravitate towards classical piano lessons, and if forced, may prematurely quit piano altogether due to lack of interest.
It is better that the child remain motivated to learn by taking piano lessons in a style of music they enjoy. While pop music lessons may be popular with your child, the downside is that it doesn’t provide as solid of a foundation for your child’s musical development.
What kind of keyboard should I get?
Serious classical students should learn to practice on an acoustic piano. While digital pianos are becoming more complex and resemble acoustic pianos more and more each day, they are still no match.
The importance of having a good keyboard cannot be overemphasized – in particular, the quality of piano hammer action and resulting key action are critical to strengthening and increasing the flexibility and speed of the classical pianists’ hands. All acoustic piano keys are designed to provide a deliberate touch response and resistance which cannot be accurately duplicated on the digital keyboard. Keyboards are becoming better at mimicking the touch of acoustic pianos.
Various brands of acoustic pianos will have a wide range of response. It is akin to comparing an electric typewriter to a standard typewriter. The difference can be dramatic to the experienced pianist. For the aspiring classical pianist, however, keyboard action is very important and as the pianist becomes more experienced he or she will find a particular brand of keyboard that will become his/her favorite.
What is the correct posture while seated at the piano?
The correct posture while sitting at the piano is: feet firmly planted and square to the floor, back straight and forearms perpendicular to the body. The forearms should also be parallel to the keyboard. A child should use a bench that is adjusted in height and distance from the piano to ensure correct alignment of the forearm and body posture.
Are there different types of weighted keys?
The answer to that is most definitely. As it was articulated in question number two, pianos differ in their weight as well as touch response. It’s much like comparing an old standard typewriter to an electric typewriter. As a musician becomes more experienced, they will eventually gravitate towards a brand of piano that demonstrates a touch response and weighted key action that they like.
[Author Credits: Dan Maynard is a classically trained pianist, music composer and publisher of a site that reviews pianos. Dan also dedicates time to his other passion in life, reading and studying Internet marketing.]
I saved up and bought myself a keyboard, but my parents won't sign me up for piano lessons. Is there any way to learn how to play online or through some other method? Any ideas appreciated!
studying piano
I saved up and bought myself a keyboard, but my parents won't sign me up for piano lessons. Is there any way to learn how to play online or through some other method? Any ideas appreciated!
studying piano
I also have this question on my mind and I am just so happy that I have now this post and learn this answer to that question.