Key Sounds UK • April 29, 2020

ALWAYS WANTED TO PLAY THE PIANO

One of the most frequent things myself and fellow music teachers hear from both our acquaintances and our adult’s students is:

‘I always wanted to play the piano when I was younger.’

This blog posts highlights the key things stopping those who desire to learn and some ideas of how to overcome these challenges.

  1. Time

When most people picture themselves learning music, they believe it will take them several hours per day of practice.

The beauty of giving it a go as a beginner is that you start with 10-15 minutes per day – if that! The reason being is because small and regular increments are more powerful when music is loaded with information.

As you progress, you will gradually increase the time of your practice sessions and ensure that they are still productive for your given sessions. Once you get to this stage, you’ll have a much better idea of whether music is or isn’t for you as you’ll be spending much more of your time with your instrument.

  1. Money

Yes and no! Today there are so many resources and instruments which you can buy for a good quality to start out with.

In terms of the instrument itself, some sites we recommend are Gear4Music and Normans. For keyboards, the ones with weighted keys are much more valuable as they will strengthen your fingers faster and both the ‘P’ and ‘B’ range of keyboards and pianos are the most durable too.

There are tonnes of resources and courses you can get started with at a fraction of the cost of hiring a teacher if you are looking to learn online.

A great music theory app: Music Tutor

If you are a beginner feel free to check out our course: https://www.udemy.com/course/piano-for-absolute-beginners/

If you are looking to refresh your music theory knowledge or sit and exam feel free to check out our other course: https://www.udemy.com/course/prepare-for-abrsm-grade-one-and-two-music-theory/

  1. Commitment

‘I’m not great at committing to something.’

Whilst this may be true for the activities you don’t enjoy after a while; this could be something that you do end up enjoying and can even use as a form of expression.

Use this time to start your musical journey and let us know if you have any questions!

For more tips and tricks follow us on Instagram: @keysoundsuk or Facebook: www.facebook.com/keysoundsuk

The post ALWAYS WANTED TO PLAY THE PIANO appeared first on Key Sounds UK.

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Is piano really the best instrument to start my 6- or 7-year-old on? Piano is widely recognized as the most accessible first instrument for children, especially between ages 5–9, because it’s intuitive, builds transferable skills, and gives them confidence to explore music further. Here’s why we believe piano to be the first best instrument to start learning on: Visual and logical layout: The keys are arranged in a way that makes learning notes and patterns simple for children. Unlike string instruments, kids don’t need to worry about tuning or finger placement precision right away. Gentle on small hands: Pressing keys is easier than stretching tiny fingers around guitar frets or violin strings. Instant sound success: Children can play simple songs from day one, which keeps motivation high. Actionable tips we recommend to parents: Find the right teacher: Look for someone who specializes in young beginners and uses games, movement, and creativity alongside note reading. Choose the right instrument: We are happy to recommend where you can buy these from but in short, a full-size digital piano with weighted keys is often better than a small keyboard as this builds strength and mobility in the fingers. Set up a practice routine: Start with 5 minutes a day, same time each day (after homework or before bedtime works well). Keep it fun: Ask your teacher about duets, familiar songs, or apps that turn practice into a game. If you’d like to find out more contact us using our form: www.keysoundsuk.com/book-class

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How do I know if my 5–7 year old is ready to start piano lessons? Here are three simple signs that show they’re ready to begin piano lessons. 1. They Can Tell Left from Right Since piano uses both hands independently, knowing left from right helps children follow instructions and feel confident at the keyboard. Tip for parents: If your child is still learning, making playful stickers on each hand (L & R) can work wonders. 2. They Can Recognize Letters A–G The piano is built around these seven letters. If your child can already identify them, it’s much easier to connect notes to the keys. Tip for parents: Practice spotting A–G during everyday activities alphabet books, fridge magnets, or singing the musical alphabet. 3. They Show an Interest in Music at Home If your child already sings along to songs in the car, dances in the living room, or taps rhythms on the table, that curiosity is a strong sign they’ll enjoy lessons. Piano builds on these natural instincts and channels them into learning. Tip for parents: Encourage these habits, ask what their favorite song is, clap the beat together, or let them “perform” their version at home. If you’d like to find out more contact us using our form: www.keysoundsuk.com/book-class

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Apart from learning songs, what else will my child actually gain from piano lessons? Piano lessons build far more than musical ability; they strengthen focus, memory, emotional growth, and even academic skills that carry over into school and life. Cognitive Benefits Boosts memory and focus: Regular practice teaches kids how to concentrate deeply for short bursts. Improves math and reading skills: Rhythm strengthens counting, while learning notes mirrors pattern recognition in reading. Emotional & Social Growth Confidence: Performing for family or at small recitals builds self-esteem. Resilience: Mistakes become opportunities to learn patience and problem-solving. Responsibility: Regular practice introduces accountability in a safe, positive way. Actionable Tips for Parents Support practice without pressure: Create a short, predictable routine and praise effort rather than perfection. Celebrate small wins: Clap after home performances, record progress videos or let your child “teach you” a note or song. Integrate piano into daily life: Use it as a fun break between homework and play, not a chore. Encourage creativity: Ask your child to make up their own songs or change rhythms to keep curiosity alive. Stay connected with the teacher: Regularly check-in to understand progress and how you can help at home. If you’d like to find out more contact us using our form: www.keysoundsuk.com/book-class
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