Piano is a social instrument!

​Some people think the piano is a lonely instrument and picture the pianist as a socially isolated being. However, although the piano is not your typical orchestra instrument, it is one of the easiest instruments to socialize with.

Here are 5 ways piano players at all levels can get together with other people: 

1. Piano duets 
Invite another piano player and browse the endless repertoire for two people at one piano, the so called 4 hand pieces. Some pieces are for two players on the same level, other duets will have parts on different levels. Once you are clear about the level you are both on, you can start choosing your pieces. The IMSLP (International Music Score Library Project)  has a lot of free music for legal downloading. Read an entire pianoways blog post about the benefits of duet playing here.

2. Chamber music or Band:
Join forces with players of other instruments. Be it classical chamber music or a pop/rock band, the piano plays a vital role in any formation. Mostly, classical chamber music has piano parts that require an advanced level, but there are also easier pieces and arrangements that are good for earlier levels. The pop/rock bands will have a percussionist to provide the beat and melody instruments for the tunes, so the piano player can blend in with some harmony and the occasional solo without having to play on a very high level. This pianoways blog post explains how you can easily build up the skills needed for participating in a band. 

3. Piano Parties:
Children usually have the opportunity to play in class recitals. Adults can organize piano parties, where a group of players will get together. Each player will prepare a piece to perform and a culinary contribution for the meal. After the excitement of playing and listening to one another you will enjoy the well earned meal together. This can be a meeting place for players of different levels who can encourage and inspire one another. You could also invite players of other instruments to join in the fun.

4. Sing- Alongs:
Get together with people who like to sing and play the chords to give the singers some back up harmony. You can use guitar chord lead sheets for this too. Depending on your level, use anything between basic blocked chords and fancy accompaniments. It is important to be in sync with the singers so keep it simple enough for you to maintain a steady beat. 

5. Background music for events: 
You can provide live background music to an event : whether it's a small birthday celebration or a flashy fund raising evening, it is a lot more fun having a real person play live music instead of recorded music. Play your favorite pieces and use the opportunity to refresh and expand your repertoire. When you play pieces you like both you and your listeners will benefit.
​Nurit Reuveni

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Related posts
- 7 Great Reasons for Learning the Piano
- Have You Considered Piano Duets?
- Why Scales and Chords can Boost your Piano Playing

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