In every learning process, mistakes are made.

In fact, mistakes are a part of every learning process. When used wisely, they can help you learn more quickly.

Even if you’re learning to play the piano.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t learn how to avoid certain mistakes, either.

Here are the biggest mistakes to avoid when you learn to play the piano.

Avoid Poor Posture When You Learn to Play the Piano

Here’s an easy-to-avoid, but common mistake people who want to learn the piano often make.

They slump. Or slouch.

Or they’re too far away or too close to the piano. It makes it harder to learn to play the piano.

It’s also kind of painful after awhile to be sitting incorrectly.

So, as a general rule of thumb:

  • Inhale Rule: If your stomach is touching the piano when you inhale – you’re too close.
  • Overstretched Arms: If you have to reach the piano keys, you’re too far away.
  • Cat Rule: If a cat can sit in your lap while you comfortably play, you’re perfect!

Avoid Overkill When You Learn to Play the Piano

“Practice Makes Perfect.”

This adage is true. If the person practicing has a balanced life.

Otherwise, “All Work and No Play Makes Jack a Dull Boy,” becomes the reality.

Practicing is great but when you go overboard, you’re going to burn yourself out quickly.

Pace yourself. You want to learn to play the piano. It takes time to learn a new instrument. It also takes time to build up a skill.

While you might want to sound like Mozart right off the bat, it’s not going to happen.

Here’s a good guideline for how long to practice:

  • Professional Level: Up to 40 minutes at a time.
  • Adult Level: Up to 30 minutes per day.
  • Younger Level (Kids): Up to 10-15 minutes 3 times per week.

Avoid Poor Hand Positioning When You Learn to Play the Piano

Who knew hand positioning could really matter all that much?

But it does, a lot.

You need to learn the proper key technique in the beginning. Otherwise, it will make it much more difficult to play certain songs.

And it’s darn near impossible to undo a habit than it is to never pick it up in the first place.

  • Fingertips on Keys: To begin with, the tips of your fingertips should be on the keys and nothing else. This means your hand is curved. That is proper placement to begin to learn to play the piano.
  • Master One Hand First: It’s so much easier to master one hand first and then add in the second once you’ve become comfortable with the piece. This will also ensure you have and keep proper fingering.

Avoid Sucking the Fun Out of Learning to Play the Piano

Whether you’re a kid or an adult, it’s important to have fun.

Trying to learn to play the piano is no different.

If you’re not enjoying playing the piano, you won’t practice.

Practice fun pieces. Pick out songs you really want to learn how to play. It will keep you coming back.

It’s also important to find the right teacher to keep you motivated.

Find someone who will teach the type of music you like.

As is finding the right keyboard or piano to fit your needs. We’re here to help you get started today.