5-Minute Piano Lessons

Identify Your Confusion and Name it so You can Solve It

Some piano students find practicing piano, reading music, working on pieces “confusing.” At least, that’s the word they use at their lessons when trying to describe their problems. It’s a very broad, general word and, because it is so general, it’s almost impossible to “un-confuse” the student. If anything like this happens to you then read on, because I know a solution which will leave your path clear and obvious – and unconfused.

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More Explanation of the Psychology of Nervousness and Possible Solutions

There is more you should understand about the psychology of your nervousness at your piano lesson. I’ve been teaching adult piano lessons for over two decades and during that time, I’ve seen countless examples of the following “cycle of fear”  in adult students: (more…)

How to Overcome Your Fear of Piano Lessons

Do you have a creeping anxiety that comes on as lesson time draws near? Have you actually used those evil words during your piano lesson, “I played it so much better at home?” Many, maybe most, piano students suffer from this dread affliction to some degree. Some start lessons with an advanced case and some develop the infection as lessons go forward. Either way, a fear of piano lessons makes instruction less than joyful and something you tolerate rather than something you look forward to. Wouldn’t it be great to lose that fear? (more…)

How to Avoid the Stress of the Piano Recitals Yet Get ALL the Benefits

Having interviewed a couple thousand prospective adult students over the last two decades and then given most of these folks private piano and keyboard lessons, I can state with certainty that fear of piano recitals is pretty much a given for adult piano students. The majority simply hate the idea and are quite relieved when I explain I don’t “do” recitals. I also take pains to explain why and how all the benefits that recitals supposedly bring can be achieved in a MUCH less stressful and less un-natural manner. (more…)

How to Feel Calmer and More At Ease During Your Piano Lesson

I’d like to continue with way of minimizing upset, fear, and frustration at your piano lessons.

Make correct comparisons when evaluating your progress.

Ask yourself if you are doing better this week than last week. If you are, you are progressing. Many of the students I’ve had are always comparing their current efforts with some nebulous idea of “perfection.” Thus, they are always lacking in something (perfection being impossible in this world.) Thus, they are always feeling bad about themselves and their abilities. (more…)

Should the Piano Student Strive for Good Music or Proper Following Directions?

A moment ago, as I was practicing my piano, I had a startling realization. I suspect (since I cannot read minds) that many of my piano students are subconsciously striving to play their piano music “the proper way.” This would explain why they ask me, their instructor, to pass judgment on their piano efforts (remember that these are adults, music lovers who have voluntarily come to me for lessons.) (more…)