Reshmi Patel • April 26, 2021
How to Find Your Perfect Piano Teacher
With so many piano teachers out there with a variety of different teaching methods and approaches, it’s so easy to know which teacher will support you and your needs as an aspiring musician.
To help support you in your journey, I’ve compiled a list which will support you in choosing the perfect piano teacher for you!
1. Do your research
In the music industry today, there are so many unqualified teachers who don’t have an education or background in music. Both myself, my teacher and some of my current students have experienced this! Therefore, we decided to use this as an opportunity to share what we learnt.
Personally, I prefer a teacher who can play so that they can empathise with my struggles and demonstrate different techniques if required to do so.
If you are looking to learn grades or a specific genre of music then have a read into the teacher’s background as they may specialise in teacher one or the other.
2. Individualised Approach
Everyone learns differently. Some may prefer visual prompts, some auditory and others kinaesthetic resources and materials. It may be useful to check on the teacher’s website or contact them to ask them how they would tailor their resources to best help you succeed.
3. Consistency
If they are consistent, they are committed.
How often do they teach and does this work with your timetable?
If your teacher can fit you in for regular sessions – say once or twice per week then this will help both your progress and accountability both in the short and long term.
4. Previous Results
Ask your chosen teacher what their other students have achieved since learning with them and use this this as a measurement of their delivery and skill set.
5. Open to new musical ideas
There are some teachers who solely specialise in teaching one genre of music whilst there are others who teacher a mixture of genres.
If you wish to master one particular style of music then choose a teacher who can meet these needs. However, if you choose to be a musician with a variety of skills then choose a teacher who can meet these needs instead.
Remember that when you are trying out these hacks to look at them little and often but also be patient with yourself. If you wish to know more about these hacks and resources, feel free to take a look around our website or connect with us directly.
To find out more, feel free to get involved in our latest project “The Habits of the Top Performing Piano Players”, fill out our survey: https://bit.ly/2FDs8rf
For your chance to win a Nintendo DS Lite or a £50 Amazon Gift Voucher.
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
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
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
