As the New Year approaches, many people make resolutions to improve their lives in some way. For piano learners, this can be a great opportunity to set goals and work on becoming a better pianist. Here are some New Year's resolutions you might consider as you embark on your piano journey:
practice regularly
One of the most important things for a piano learner is to practice consistently. Set aside a specific time each day or week to sit at the piano and play. Even just 15-20 minutes of daily practice can make a big difference in your progress. Regularity is the key to improving your skills and making progress, so try to establish a regular practice schedule and stick to it.
Set specific goals
Figure out what you want to accomplish on the piano. It could be learning a new piece, improving your technique, or memorizing a certain number of pieces. Having specific goals will help you stay motivated and progress. You might also consider setting short-term and long-term goals to keep you on track. For example, you could set a goal to learn a new piece every month, or to be able to play a certain piece without making mistakes.
Learn new pieces
Challenge yourself by learning new pieces that are outside of your comfort zone. It will help you broaden your musical horizons and improve your skills. You might choose to learn a piece in a different style of music or try a piece that is more difficult than what you are used to playing. It's important to push yourself and try new things, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone.
Improve your technique
Focusing on improving your finger dexterity, hand position, and general technique will help you play more easily and efficiently. You might consider working with a teacher or finding technique-focused teaching materials. It's also worth paying attention to your posture and hand position while playing, as this can greatly affect your ability to play smoothly and accurately.
Attend concerts and recitals
Attending concerts and recitals is a great way to learn about different styles of music and see how professional pianists play. You might also consider attending lectures or workshops given by professional musicians to learn more about the art of piano playing. Seeing other musicians play can be inspiring and give you new ideas and techniques to try in your own playing.
learn music theory
Understanding the underlying principles of music can help you become a better pianist and musician in general. Music theory includes concepts like scales, chords, and melody, and learning these things can help you understand the structure of the music you play. It can also help you improvise and create your own music. You might consider taking a music theory class or finding educational materials to learn more about these concepts.
Collaborate with others
Playing music with friends or joining a band or ensemble can be a fun and rewarding experience. Collaborating with others can help you learn new skills and techniques, and it's also a great way to socialize and make new friends. Playing with others can also help you develop your band playing skills, which is important for any musician.
Experiment with different styles
Try playing different styles of music, such as classical, jazz, blues, or pop. It will help you become a more versatile pianist and give you a greater appreciation for the different types of music that are out there. It's important to keep an open mind and try new things - you never know what you might discover or enjoy.
Attend classes or workshops
Consider taking piano lessons or attending workshops to receive personalized instruction and learn from experienced musicians. Working with a teacher can help you identify and correct any weaknesses in your playing and can also guide you in your musical goals. Lessons or workshops can be a great opportunity to get feedback on your game and ask questions about anything you're not sure about.
Enjoy
Above all, remember to enjoy the piano learning process. Don't focus too much on the goal of perfection - have fun and allow yourself to make mistakes. Playing the piano should be a source of fun and creativity, so be sure to take breaks and make time for yourself to relax and have fun. It's important to find a balance between hard work and play, so be sure to take breaks and do things you enjoy outside of your piano practice.
By making these resolutions and sticking to them, you can make significant progress on your piano journey in the year ahead. Remember to set realistic goals and be patient with yourself as you work towards them. With consistent practice, determination, and a love for music, you can become a better pianist and reap all the benefits of playing this magnificent instrument.
It's also important to remember that progress takes time and it's okay to make mistakes. Don't be discouraged if you don't immediately see the results you want - just keep practicing and have fun, and you'll improve over time. With dedication and a positive attitude, you can achieve your musical goals and have a rewarding and fulfilling year of piano playing.
New Year's Resolutions 2023: Ideas for piano learners
