Old vs. Young students

Something I'm constantly faced with is the question "Is it easier to learn piano at a later age in life?" or "Am I weird for starting lessons now that I'm 24 (or 30 or 50)???"  Well, let me start off by saying that it's never too late to learn!  Piano is such a joy that if you have the time, don't let anything stop you from learning!  Secondly, I've taught people as young as 5 and as old as 50.  In fact, I currently have a few brand new students that are in their 20s, so you're definitely not alone!

Younger students are faced with certain challenges that older students have long since overcome:
          -distinguishing left hand from right hand
          -basic arithmetic, fractions
          -alphabet
          -attention span

On the other hand, younger students tend to soak new concepts up like a sponge, and they have yet to learn the discipline to practice regularly on their own.  Older students have their own challenges, though:
          -managing lesson/practice times around work
          -sticking with it past the basics

One attitude that seems to be common with older students is they think that since they're older they can take a few lessons and then learn the rest on their own.  Don't make this mistake!  Learning piano, or any other instrument for that matter, is like learning a new language!  You will get the most out of your experience if you 1) practice daily, 2) take lessons, and 3) play in recitals.

Thanks for reading!  Leave me a comment, I'm always interested in what you think!

New blog!

Hi,

As my bio says, I'm a piano teacher that lives in Upland.  I've just started this blog to try and connect more with my current students as well as potential new students.  To begin with, I want to ask a question about what you think of studios like California Music Studios, Opus Music Education, TakeLessons.com, or your average brick-and-mortar music stores.  What has been your experience?  Were you satisfied?  Do you think they charge a fair rate for their service?

If you're not familiar with any of these businesses, let me explain some of the pros and cons.  I'm talking now about everything but the brick-and-mortar music stores.  Businesses like California Music Studios (CMS) and the others charge a significantly higher rate than, say, a private teacher that you pay directly.  Why?  Well, it's the same reason a mechanic charges you labor expenses.  Most people don't work on their car, or even change the oil; they would rather pay someone to do it.  CMS is the same way; they find you the teacher, they do a background check, and they keep a roster of teachers in your area so that in case one flakes out on you you still get what you paid for.

Well, now, I can see why people choose to go with them!  However, you must decide for yourself if that is worth it to you.  If you're not sure, find out what the going rate is for a lesson in your area.  Then, take some time and try finding a teacher that suits your needs.  If after the 2nd or 3rd teacher you begin to get discouraged, then maybe services like CMS are for you.

In the comments below, feel free to tell me what you think!  Thanks!