Why People Quit Playing Piano
The Story I Always Hear
The conversation normally goes like this:
Thank you. Do you play any instruments? - Me
No but I love music. And I use to play piano - Friend
You don't play anymore? - Me
No, not really. But I wish I did - Friend
And that's when we change the subject to something else.
But why did they stop?
Reasons Why People Quit
1) They're not very good
Human nature here. We compare our skills with others. If someone else started playing at 5 years old but we started at 13, that's 8 years of practice! Of course there's a difference in skill!
A better mentality would be: Am I better than I was 2 years ago? or even 2 months ago.
2) They don't have a piano anymore
Honestly, there are problems with buying/owning a piano. They take up space, are heavy, and can be expensive. If you have a choice between adding a bigger tv to your room versus a piano, it's too easy to go with the tv.
3) There's just no time
Most people start piano before life gets too complicated. When your commitments increase, piano becomes less important.
Tips to start again, without breaking the bank
Start slow
Take your time and don't watch other people on the internet! It's too deep of a rabbit hole. If you want someone else's help, ask a friend or someone you see playing around town.
Be consistent
Just 20 minutes of practice a day is plenty. Make it a part of your daily routine. Brush your teeth, wash your face, play piano for 20 short minutes.
Go electric
Electric pianos are smaller, lightweight, cheaper, and never go out of tune. Do a quick online search for Yamaha keyboards 61 keys or Casio 61 keys. There are plenty of good pianos for less than $200.
But remember, the easiest way to pick up piano is to never give it up.
If you play, never stop.
- AJ