 Learning to play the piano at any age is wonderful. However, although one would think that the common goal of being able to play the piano would require a similar path, the learning process of adults and kids is quite different. Almost reversed.
When a 7-year-old comes in for their piano lesson, they want to try things out, play by ear or by rote, and experience as much as they can. They absorb and put to action without much thinking. When an adult beginner comes for piano lessons, they may need quite a lot of convincing to actually put their hands on the keys and press them down. They want to know and understand as much as possible before acting. In this post I will give a few general indications about the differences, advantages and tricky aspects for 6-7-year-olds and adult beginners who are learning to play the piano. Students between these ages will be somewhere along the road from childhood to adulthood with their piano playing too. Hand Posture: The soft, flexible hands of young kids need help in rounding the fingers and the dome of the hand. They will happily play using any finger of either hand. Unlike string instruments, where you start off with the instrument that suits your size and switch to a larger one as you go along, the piano comes in one size and it can be a bit challenging for small hands to press down the heavy keys if not guided properly. With time their hands grow to move naturally and confidently on the keys. Adults usually grasp the round finger and domed hand position quite easily, but they tend to get stiff and tense, so need help with freeing and relaxing the shoulders, arms and wrists. Note Reading Many kids find learning to read music is an effort and prefer looking down at the keys. They often need to be reminded to stop guessing and to pick up their eyes to read the sheet music. Note reading makes sense to adults, they understand the logic of the system and can usually breeze through the basics. Adults will naturally have their eyes glued to the sheet music but unlike kids, they are often surprised when I point out the key patterns on the keyboard itself. Musical Memory Memorizing really is easier at a younger age. Kids can effortlessly remember big chunks of music, whereas adults have to work harder to get there. Which explains why adults like reading music and kids prefer not to. Improvisation and Music Theory The playful nature of kids enables them to easily dive into new, creative activities and try things out while learning by doing. With the help of improvisation games kids can also learn music theory concepts in a fun way. Generally, adults tend to be more self-conscious and somewhat perfectionist, so they prefer improvising in a way that is understandable to them, applying even the simplest musical knowledge into a creative framework. I like helping adults with improvisation by using music theory, while helping kids with music theory via improvisation games. Motivation Young kids often start piano lessons because their parents decided it would be good for them. As they grow older and develop their skills, music gradually becomes a part of their lives. Adults and teenagers come for lessons because they themselves want to do this so that in general, practice cones more naturally to them . Benefits Besides the obvious benefit of opening up to the wonderful world of music, kids and adults who learn to play the piano have their own special rewards. The learning process helps Kids develop discipline, concentration and coordination while gaining confidence and a higher self-esteem. Adults often tell me playing reduces emotional stress in their lives, keeps their brains engaged, and gives them an activity they can grow with even at a later age. As a teacher I meet students of all ages where they are and guide them in the way that best fits them. To sign up for piano classes please click here Warm musical greetings Nurit Related Posts - What is the Best Age to start Piano Lessons? - How Much Talent do You Need to Play the Piano? - 7 point Check list to guarantee success at the piano
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