Getting better at piano (or any other instrument)

I often think of what it means to be better at piano.

You practice to get better but what kind of practice really determine your progress. If you've played bunch of notes and if you are sounding like you can play in tempo then you've been wasting time.

Practice and getting better at musical instrument really requires you to be analytical about yourself. You are the one practicing so YOU have to know that you need to practice better.

Often times teacher neglect this simple fact or they are usually afraid that you are going to lose interest in learning or continuing lessons with them. Because it is a tough process. Judging yourself is some

It's psychological issue that always exist with lessons. I'm sure teachers are aware of it but this stuff needs to be taught differently for everyone.

Ability to pick those up and correct them yourself is really critical. Yet it's true that if you don't know music enough it's hard to tell.. and Teachers are there but it's also hard for them. They can't be overly analytical. Because that may impede your progress.

Very hard...

Yet you HAVE to do it. Somehow. I wish I could tell you.

If you are reading this and you're student, you should mention that you want to know HOW and WHAT to practice and in details. Learn the very basic of producing a tone.

Do one finger at a time. Slowly until you get used to it. try doing more things at once. That initial aha is important. but you have to remind yourself of other stuff too. So You will have to be going back and forth between what's relatively hard for you and what' seemingly way too easy (playing a single note)

But if you can play a single note like no other player can you've got your self a serious talent. Just know that. That's what you should look for when you play an instrument. Your individuality. and How you can get that individuality into all notes and all interpretation.


I think all these legends have that in common. They know how to play a note like no other. So don't underestimate the power of practicing to play a single note. Very important. Could be more important that learning a song.

If you are serious about music just ask yourself what's there that only you can do. And develop and hone your talent. Be critical and motivate others (especially your teacher) to critique more. Willing to take them into account. Try recording youself and analyze what can be done or try to ask more question so you will know why who ever made that particular advice thought that way.

Turn everything into a positive energy. Take everything in.