For Enjoyment
Playing the piano is FUN. It’s a challenging skill to be sure, but well worth the effort. In fact, most enjoy the challenge and love seeing their progress over time. Most aspiring players do NOT want to become concert pianists. The good news is there is a lot of music out there for every playing level. Playing for enjoyment is an excellent reason to study the piano. It’s something for yourself.
For Mental Health
This is a big one. Playing the piano is one of the most complex skills on the planet. It’s the reason neuroscientists love to study musicians’ brains. Neuroscientists tell us the brains of musicians are different from non musicians. Playing the piano is a cognitive skill powerhouse. It’s a complex motor skill with multi-sensory input. Music also creates an emotional response within us. In short, playing the piano engages every major part of the central nervous system. Wow!
To Make Friends
Who doesn’t want to make friends? One of the most fun parts of learning to play is joining a community of music lovers! Research shows being a part of a group class decreases anxiety and depression. Those taking private lessons enjoy special performing opportunities (for those interested). Don’t worry – there are no required recitals. Everyone enjoys our regular studio socials throughout the year!
To Express Yourself
We all have something unique to offer at the piano. If every student played the same exact piece of music, every person would play it in a different way. When we play, we have something to communicate to ourselves and each other. Music expresses our own humanity at the deepest level. There’s something extraordinary about our participation in music making. When we are able to convey the humanity within our music, it’s a beautiful thing.
To Impress Family & Friends
This isn’t a reason most people start learning to play the piano. But it can be one of the most rewarding aspects of being able to play. Some have no desire to play for anyone other than a teacher or classmate. There’s nothing wrong with that. But there are those who fantasize about playing a favorite tune for friends. Some want to play their favorite Christmas tune over the Holidays. Some want to sit down at a public piano (hello airport piano) and let loose on a favorite pop tune.
What’s your musical fantasy? I’d love to know more. Share it or leave a comment!