Getting Started Playing the Piano

Getting Started

To play the piano you will ideally need the following: 

IconDescription

Piano or Keyboard

You can learn to play on a grand piano, upright acoustic piano, digital piano or a keyboard. Ideally the keyboard should be touch sensitive and have full size keys.

Seat

It is important that the seat you choose is at the right height for you. When you sit, your waist must be level with the top of the piano keys. This avoids arm strain.

Lamp

Have a direct light above your music so that you can read it clearly. Whether you have printed out the music onto paper, or you are reading from a mobile device, having a direct light avoids eye strain.

Metronome

A metronome is designed to help you play in time! It ticks at a steady beat measured in beats per minute (BPM). You can either use a physical metronome or download a metronome app.

15 Minutes

Aim to practice for at least 15 minutes every day. Get into a regular practice routine and have a clear idea of what you want to achieve in your practice session.

Practice Journal

There is a printable practice journal PDF in Resources. It contains music paper and space for you to catalogue your progress. Set yourself a target amount of time each week and enter it as you go.