First of all, let me say Thank You!
I have been so amazed at all of the incredible posts and stories I’ve read over the last several days. Thank you so much for all your wonderful responses to my Happy Holiday Contest- I have loved hearing from all of you! ~smile~
Because of the incredible number of responses, I wanted to show my appreciation to all of you and give out two more “piano playing surprises.” This means that I’ll be giving out a total of three prizes to three lucky aspiring pianists.
All you have to do is answer the following four questions and submit your comments to this post (or the previous My Happy Holiday Surprise post). The four questions are:
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Remember, the three people who answer the questions the best (judged by me) will win. The winners will be someone who answer the four questions completely and understands most -the joy piano playing can bring to your life. And don’t worry you can still win even if you’ve never played ~smile~
So what are the TWO NEW prizes?
The TWO ADDITIONAL prize winners will BOTH receive:
• One entire year of access tomy acclaimed World’s Favorite Online Piano Lessons, called PremiumPiano, with simple to follow instructions and amazing piano teacher support…AND
• A complimentary spot on my new 4 week teleseminar designed to kick-start your piano playing and get you playing your favorite songs in record time.
And don’t forget that the first place prize winner will receive:
• A full ride 1 year scholarship to my new online piano academy program, PianoPlus with the SuperSupportSystem. This revolutionary training and support system is designed to give you all the support you need to accomplish your piano playing dreams.
• One entire year’s worth of lessons using my acclaimed World’s Favorite Online Piano Lessons with simple to follow instructions and amazing piano teacher support.
• A complimentary spot on my new 4 week teleseminar designed to kick-start your piano playing and get you playing your favorite songs in record time.
So if you haven’t already submitted your response, act quickly because the contest ends on Tuesday, December 23 at midnight.
And I’ll be announcing the winner on Wednesday, December 24 as soon as I finish reading every last entry submitted.
Thank you and if you haven’t submitted your entry please do because I would love to hear from you!
Happy Playing,
Lisa
Start Taking Piano Lessons Right Now with a Free Membership!
Don't forget to Sign Up!
Caroline Latim says
Hi Lisa,
Thank you so much for the free piano lessons online. I have always wanted to play an instrument in my life, piano being one of them, but was not able to afford it until i came acrossyour site.Thank you and keep on smiling + try and get some sleep!!!!
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
My main challenge is time. I’m a full time mum, mother of two(under five).
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Not being able to sponsor myself for the lessons and all the other requirements.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I love music. Any song really, classical, esp church songs.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Being able to perform in a concert, just to get lost in the music, i mean, i love the sound of the piano, it gives joy that i cannot explain, to be able to play for those less able to and yet enjoy the sound of the piano…beautiful esp. to the ailing, cos i believe the sound of the piano brings a smile to ones face and everything within just wakes up!!! There’s something soooo beautiful about this musical instrument.
Thank you Lisa.
Caroline
Shailendra Khemka says
Hi Lisa:
My response to the questions are as follows:
Q1: What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Ans: The main challenge holding me back from playing the piano is the constant conflict between work and time. Being a freshman at Boston University, I have just entered the academic sphere and am required to not only learn from but also significantly contribute to my major, Computer Science. Both the piano and Computer Science are an integral part of my personality: just like a human being needs to eat and drink to survive, I derive my energy from playing the piano and ruminating about the academic realm. In my life, I endeavour to manage my schedule in such a way that I can give adequate time to both of my interests. Here lies a challenge! Once I indulge in a particular thing, I cannot get myself to leave it midway and move on to a different subject. Though I have assigned one hour in my every day schedule to playing the piano, this time division usually varies; it all depends on the vocation with which I start my day. I have seen that I tend to give too much time to this vocation, thereby sacrificing the time I had planned to dedicate in pursuit of other interests. Many days I have worked on the computer for long hours and ended up playing the piano for less than ten minutes, while on others, I have played the piano for hours at a stretch and not bothered about programming. Adherence to time management is the need of the hour!
Q2: What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Ans:Primary among “the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like [I have] always dreamed” (Lisa) is the unacquaintance with the right techniques. The reason for the unawareness about the right way to do a particular thing is two fold: firstly, I often end up practising the wrong thing due to the lack of good teachers at my hometown of Assam, India. The winter and the summer breaks are the only times when I have ample opportunities to play the piano. During the fall and the spring semesters, on the other hand, I have to race with time in an attempt to give adequate attention to both Computer Science and piano. Many a times my music professor at Boston says that things I have learnt at home are wrong. This makes the process tedious, as it is hard to unlearn what one has already learned. Here your “Online Piano Lessons” become invaluable to me. They are a perfect guide to playing the piano and help me to imbibe the right techniques to master the instrument; for instance, I was facing a lot of trouble while shifting my hand position during a piece. Then I referred to your online lessons and saw the video that advised one to focus on the finger which was to play the next note while changing the hand position. You also bought about the realization that if I managed to press the right key after shifting the hand, the rest of the fingers automatically come in position. I was surprised to see the applicability and effectiveness of your technique. The second reason that hampers my piano playing experience is the presence of students in my music class who have tutors at home. At Boston University, I am on full scholarship and live in a university residence. Considering the high cost to get a personal tutor, I have never had the advantage to have one on one interactions with music professors- your live online conferences are, of course, an exception and an opportunity I had never thought I could avail. The students in my music class already know what is being taught; consequently, the class goes at very fast pace and I am unable to clarify all my doubts. Lisa, your piano lessons have come as a benediction for me. It was solely on their basis that I prepared for the piano finals and secured an A in the course. Your advice to count aloud to maintain the rhythm helped me to perform my final piece at a consistent pace. Despite of not having a personal tutor, I was among the top five students in the course. Using the online notes, I can go at my own pace and ensure that I understand the basics before moving on to play different pieces.
Q3: What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Ans: I have a passion for classical, romantic, and inspirational songs. Pieces written by Allegretto are also among my favourites. I believe that the beauty of classical songs will last till eternity and always have the capability to touch the innermost feelings of music lovers. Inspirational songs encourage me to never be complacent about progress and strive for perfection. After hearing them, I have realised that life has so much to offer. One just needs to have the willingness to go from strength to strength and Providence leads the way.
Q4: What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Ans:The piano has always rejuvenated my soul. When I play the piano, I forget all the daily life tensions and am entranced by the music. It makes me realise that life is indeed very beautiful. The combination of the piano and Computer Science has helped me go a long way in life: the serenity of music is like a replenishing tool in my wild search for knowledge. After playing the piano, I feel calm and tranquil. This satisfied state of mind increases my concentration and observing power. It sharpens the saw and encourages me to strive until I achieve perfection. While playing the piano, I better understand who I really am. Music helps me to comprehend my goals in life, my aspirations, and dwell opon questions such as what I really want out of life.
It transcends my conscious mind and leads to positive vibrations in the subconscious.
Apart from personal enrichment, the piano helps me to communicate my feelings of love and respect towards my companions. The smile that spreads on my friend’s face when I play the happy birthday song makes all the effort put in to master the piano worthwhile. I believe that music is the best way to communicate and help somebody understand your emotions.
Another benefit of playing the piano is that it gives an entirely different dimension to one’s personality and is a valuable addition to the resume. People have come to realize the importance of musicians and graduate schools consider music as one of the best extra-curricular activities.
Lisa, I have had another very significant benefit from playing the piano; it was while attempting to indulge in the world of piano that I learned that people like you who are willing to impart education for free still exist in today’s world. Hats off to you!! Way to go!
Regards,
Shailendra Khemka
James Thomas says
Sent one of these that was kinda long…… But, to put it all in a nutshell…… I LOVE MUSIC, and would love to enjoy it but….. I can’t carry a tune in the biggest bucket, so I want to learn to play my new roll out piano……
Jose Gomez says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
I must say the lack of material.
I had so much fun going thru the free material you offer on your site. By the end of lesson 3, I was hooked but dissapointed to learn there was no more Free Lessons. Belive me, had there been more material available, I would be happier today.
Don’t misunderstand, I am busy, but I do make it a point to find time to practice. (Since I could not continue this, I picked up Guitarr cords online and that’s what I am practicing)
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Just like everyone else, I am also struggling with finances.
I cannot afford private lessons (like the one you offered online: easy to follow, at ones own pace and schedule, easy to understand, etc.
I checked out a book “Piano for Idiots” The book is good, but I guess I was looking for a format similar to yours( easy to understand and to follow).
I will say Finances and lack of accesable material…
in the mean time, I am doing good with my Guitar (Cords, Harmonic Circles and now even singing church chorus in spanish such as:
“Yo tengo un Amigo que me Ama” etc.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I do wish I could play the piano with ease like Richard Cliderman (he is awsome)
I now know how to play Ode to Joy, thanks to you.
I am considering myself as a person with many gifts and abilities, I have a full time job in a parts whse. I also serve as a Youth Pastor in my local community church, I have a family (3 Boys 17, 14, & 12 a busy house!!!!.) Yes I am, as we say in church, “a blessed man” nevertheless, I am hungry to learn and hopefully to master the piano…
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
The benefits will have to outweight the challenges by far, other wise, one will never put the time & effort to accomplish it.
What drove me into learning to play was a simple personal goal. “the enjoyment of playing and singing those songs I learned in Mexico while being rised in the Christian Orphanage in Morelia, Mich.” Our Care taker was a little old lady from New Zeland, Mirtle M. Paulsen, she played the piano and all of us children sang along while she played an old piano in the dinning room area. Yes, that simple goal is driving me into what has been a very difficult road. It’s difficult simply because I am not musically talented and have to work, practice, and study 5X more than an avarage musician.
I find this contest encouraging. To all potential piano players, It’s difficult to master any instrument but not Imposible.
Practicing with my Guitarr has taught me that you can only go forward in my goals..
Miss. Lisa thank you for those Free Piano lessons on your site. (Give us More!!!)
God Bless you all.
Pastor Gomez
Dolly Lane says
1.) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
My main challenge is “no piano” and “no keyboard”. It seems like everyone has a piano or a keyboard. Not here.
2.) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing piano like you’ve always dreamed?
No money to buy a keyboard and no time. Here on the Navajo Indian Reservation, nobody plays piano. You only see piano in churches, not in homes. Very few people play piano too, this is the reason I believe its a challenge. Preacher or Pastor’s wife and/or their children are usually the only ones that can play piano. Our Pastor’s daughters were the only ones that could play piano in our church. After they grew up, they went their seperate ways to make a living for themselve. Now our church does not have a piano player, I can not believe how we sound sometimes. The piano music must have covered our flaws. I just look at the piano sometimes and image me playing. I know it will be a challenge, first I would have to buy a keyboard which I found out are not cheap (from your website information a couple of weeks ago).
3.) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I always wanted to play church worship songs. Its medican for the soul.
4.) What are the three greatest benefits you will enjoy from playing the piano?
1. Sing with my children while playing the piano.
2. Play music when ever I want to, I will have no limitation to playing piano. ~Big smile~
3. Provide encouragement to others in my music and songs of worship.
Wendy says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
I think the greatest challenge for me is in believing that I can learn to play the piano at my age – hitting pretty close to 50! I don’t know how well I will be able to remember the keys and especially the chords – seems a bit daunting to me.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I’m not sure if I will be able to maintain a practice schedule. I have been ill for the last 5 years (couchbound for most of the time) and I am not sure if I will be able to sit and practice for the length of time necessary to see progress.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I would love to play songs that the entire family can sit around and sing and dance to at gatherings. I think that it would build a terrific tradition and bonding experience. Perhaps it would encourage others to learn as well.
I would also like to play songs that my young nieces can sing to enjoy – simple children’s songs.
There are also a few pop/rock songs that I would like to learn for my own personal enjoyment.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Ever since I was about 10 years old I have wanted to learn to the play the piano. We were poor and could not afford it so it was a dream that was “put away”.
I have thought about taking lessons and learning but I never had the room for a piano. I was finally able to buy a digital piano that fits in my apartment so I can now fulfill the dream – that would be the great benefit – to give my inner child a dream coming true.
I would start to create a tradition in the family of listening to and singing to the songs that everyone could sing. There is so little that holds family together nowadays and I would like to have something that we could all remember and cherish. So building a tradition would be the second benefit.
The third benefit would be to increase my self-confidence and self-esteem and to face a fear and prove to myself that I could actually do it!
Victoria Hainsby says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
I have been a dancer for about 10 years and recently made a complete career change – going back to school for 2 years. My main challenge has been time. Project work and getting through this second degree AND practicing has been tough.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
You know its a little sentimental – but growing up I played the flute and sax but my parents are not musical and we so were unable to accompany me in my practice. I want to be able to play along with my future children and support them in the wonderful activity of playing music. I’d love to play Mozart, my boyfriend is a Trumpet player on Broadway so some of the good ole Broadway classics would be fun too.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Wanting to run before I can walk! sorry – just can’t wait to play on and on and on.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
There is so much music in my life and for that I am really thankful, having been a Modern dancer for so long music has been an incredible inspiration for me, my brother is a band – two albums and constant touring, my boyfriend is a wonderful Jazz musician and Commercial trumpet Player – my being able to play the piano would allow my add to that tradition and keep the creativity flowing.
Tracy Nishibun says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
In the past, I have tried to learn piano on my own, but without much success. The main reason is that I have tried other courses where I lost my interest very quickly due to them making piano playing seem very complex or they simply were not fun.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Time. I work 2 jobs in order to support my family that includes 3 kids and the only time I could really practice would be later in the night. We do have a piano at home, but at night, I don’t want to play it because of the noise. However, we are getting a Casio 76-key keyboard for Christmas, so I am very excited that I will be able to play at anytime while using headphones! Also, because of my time constraints to my jobs and family first, I don’t have a lot of time to sit down and learn the piano for hours a day. What caught my eye to your site was the 10 minutes a day motto. I can spare 10 minutes a day and your free lessons that I looked at are wonderful…..very simple!
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I remember when I was younger and Lionel Richie belt out those beautiful ballads on the piano like Still, Three Times a Lady, and Truly, and I remember thinking that if there is any one skill that I don’t have that I wish I had, it was to be able to play the piano like that while singing. No, I didn’t want to be a pro basketball player or fly to the moon, I wanted to just play piano ballads like that. I used to dream about that all the time. Somewhere down the line, that dream dissipated because I realized that I may never be able to play at that level without a substantial amount of time and money for a piano teacher.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
The first benefit will be for myself and realizing my dream that I gave up on long ago. I can’t begin to explain to you what that will mean to me. If I finally get to that level, it will be a very emotional moment for me. Also, playing the piano will be a great stress reliever for me in my busy life. When I need to “get away” for a little while, the piano will be first place that I will run to. Secondly, my 12- year-old daughter loves music. She plays the alto saxophone in her school band and like me, tries to teach herself piano. She plays the piano practically every single day. It would mean the world to me to be able to learn the piano together and to be able to bond through music. My family has always come first in my life, so it gets me very emotional just imaging my daughter and I one day playing a ballad together at her wedding. And lastly, my wife has been such a great support for our family over the years, and if I am able to play and dedicate a ballad to her, it would be something that she is so deserving of and I know that she would not be able to hold back the tears.
Tammy says
My main challenge is setting aside the time to devote to my lessons. For me, just being disciplined enough to follow through with the program is a big issue for me. I have always dreamed of playing just like my mom can. We had an old player piano as a child and I would try to play the melody of the songs my mother had song books for. My late grandmother also played the piano as well as the organ. Her father was a Babtist preacher. I went to see Jim Brickman in concert last year and was truly inspired by his music. I bought a songbook at the concert and also was able to speak to Jim after his concert. I told him I was going to learn to play the piano online so I would be able to play his songs. I think if I had the help of a teacher I can accomplish my goal. Three benefits from this program would be a sense of accomplishment, pride, and confidence to finally be able to play like I always dreamed!
Alicia Raulerson says
Thank you for the chance to win an awesome prize!!
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano? Because your free lessons are available….not having someone to hold me accountable…finding the time and making it a priority!
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Money for the lessons….right now we have two kids that are taking lessons, one guitar and one piano.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play? Music to praise my Lord!
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano? To bring joy and peace to others, to be able to fill in at church when the pianist is not there, to be able to fulfill a dream that I had as a child to play the piano. I took lessons for 1 year at school, but we did not have a piano at home so that did not work. The greatest benefit would be to be able to sit and praise and worship God.
Thank you again!
pearland fabien says
Dear teacher,
1.What is the main challenge keeping you back from playing the piano?
Oh boy I recently gave birth to a beautiful baby girl and we both nearly lost our lives because of complications which included her being born premature..Anyway this is Kaylee’s first Xmas and her first official gift was a keyboard.I thought we could learn to play together.It’s going to be tough I know because even as I sit here typing she’s grabbing at the keys but I know I’m up to it.
I’ve always wanted to play the piano and what better way to learn than with my daughter.
2.What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I would have to say financially it was impossible for me to do so and probably it still is but I will make this work simply because its not about me anymore. Who knows maybe I can teach her or even other kids someday.
3.What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Nothing in particular because I’m a lover of all genres of music, but if I had to choose, I’m a fan of the Sound of Music so any piece from there would do
4. What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
The first would be of course I’d be able to expose my daughter to a musical instrument at an early age.Secondly I’d be able to play an instrument for the first time in my life.Last but certainly not least,I could teach others what I’ve learned
Steve Andrews says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
I am 51 and now permanently disabled. I survived 2 bouts with cancer so far but the last one left me home bound. I used to play classical guitar but my hands can’t generate enough pressure and speed to play guitar anymore. So, some friends of mine, who play piano (but live on the opposite coast) chipped in and bought me a Yamaha YPG-635 digital piano since there are FAR less contortions of the hands needed to play piano. The problem is that they didn’t realize that piano and guitar music are very different…a completely different experience (for example, there is no such thing as a bass clef in guitar music and guitar only uses a total of 8 fingers to play). So the piano is a totally foreign instrument to me.
While they bought me a book on playing it was designed for someone with a teacher (which I don’t have) and can’t afford. So until recently the piano was a HUGE paperweight! ~smile~
I tried your free lessons and was amazed and overjoyed that you were able to make something I was finding so complicated, so understandable and attainable.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I loved your free material and found that I was able actually understand and use it. The major obstacles keeping me from moving forward are not motivation, lack of desire or the time to practice. It all comes down to not being able to afford even the least expensive of your courses. While they are absolutely reasonably priced, reasonable is a relative term as my only income is social security disability income. This barely covers my expenses (contrary to popular belief, Medicare doesn’t cover all your medical bills! I discovered that after the first bout with cancer). I was actually going to sell my new digital piano until I stumbled across your music course. Since then, as I said, I went through the free lessons and because of that I held on to the piano but until this contest I didn’t have any hope of being able to attain the rest of your lessons.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I love a variety of types of music from classical to country, pop to big band.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
This is perhaps the easiest question to answer. Since becoming disabled, music has been the savior of my sanity, the physical therapy I need to keep my hands mobile (as some of the meds. cause a condition known as “medicinally induced osteoarthritis” and the only way to stop it is through movement). And finally, and probably most importantly, music is not only soothing but healing to my heart and my mind. Since most people are not alone 24/7, they don’t realize that when you are ill that is all you have to think about.
When I was still able to play an instrument I would find an escape from my everyday world. Even practicing the free lessons, I would tend to get lost in what I am doing and time seems to fly by.
That’s it. Even if this doesn’t win a prize, thank you for asking those questions. It’s not something I verbalize. And I will always be grateful for at least the experience I got from the free lessons. You have a wonderful heart and a talent for sharing yourself and skills with people and that is such a blessing.
Joanne Stankovic says
Happy Holidays to our Teacher and all the other students benefiting from this wonderful site.
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Actually, my only challenge is finding the time needed to take learning seriously. I love the piano, always have. I am trying to set aside at least 1/2 a day to learn.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Once again, it is the time. And I must admit I sometimes get intimidated when looking at the keys.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I love all music. I would just love to play in general.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
1. Relaxation
2. Being able to play and sing with the family
3. Obtaining a feeling of accomplishment
Thank you Lisa for sending me in the right direction.
Joy Thompson says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
The main challenge holding me back for playing the piano is family and friends not believing in me. They don’t think I can learn to play the piano at my age (52); they believe you have to start playing when you’re a child.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Time and money are a big obstacles. I have to spend my time trying to make money to help pay the bills and that doesn’t leave much time for practicing. My husband bought me a keyboard about 3 years ago, but the only thing I’ve managed to learn is where certain notes are; it’s frustrating.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
The one song I want to be able to play is “Musicbox Dancer”. I have loved that song since the very first time I heard it and think it would be great to be able to play it. But I would also like to be able to play hymns, boogie woogie, really – I’d like to play anything.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
I have always loved music. I don’t have the voice for singing and being from a large family, my parents couldn’t afford for me to take lessons. I think the 3 greatest benefits for me would be 1) being able to express my emotions or creativity, 2) entertain others, and 3) being able to praise God from the very depths of my soul with the talent I know is within me.
Joy Thompson
Bennie Maine says
1. I have been trying to learn off an on for 30 years and I will be 52 on my birthday next month. I made sure my four children who wanted to learn would get lesson so I would drop out. I have been stuk in the middle C positen sence. I found one teacher about 2 years ago that great for me. But my husband took a pastor and I had to move again. This is the biggest problem. I have been told my timing is alwas off. I do not know who to use the metrone properly, I have tried but I get confused over it. I would like for my hands to move smothly over the piano with confidence.
Which I do not have much of. I have several books like the complete set of Alfreds adults levels 1-3. Almost the complete set in it. I stopped again in the middle of the first book about page 53-56. Every time I move I have to find a new teacher and they make me start over. I move beacuse my husband in a minister.
2. I am currently going back to college on top of it.I am not sure how my hands should go. When they move up or down. The placements of thums going under whithout takeing your hands off the keys. I can not seem to play the way I want when I do play. I would love to play for the church when they need it. Help out in the childrens choir. Play hymns and people sing with it. I did three years ago found a teacher who taught me to count by action counting like, walk knee bend, double knee bend, dot, running and bounce. Walk was for quarter nots, knee bend was for half notes, double knee been for whole notes, dot was for counting the dots next to the quarter note like walk dot, running was for thte eight notes and bounce was for the stoucotes. This helped me but when I which teachers they get mad or irritaded at it,But it works for me.
3. All really, but realistic mostly hyms and fun songs I grew up with. Christmas ones. I would realy like to have more confidence with it. I learn real well by watching and doing it myself. Instead of doing all by myself. I have taken a learning survey and I schore high on creative and colors. Art and crafts are easy for me. Math and logical thinking is not. So I have figured if I can use color and watch it and do it. Record and listen to it maybe I can get some where.
Nyoman says
My answer :
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Skill, i can’t increase my skill. The first time i played the piano, i feel that i can do the better. But when i get the better, i realize that this is my best i can do and i can’t do the better than this. I can’t get the harmonic, intonation, symphony, feeling, i play piano like a machine. But, i still try to mastered that..
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I love music, my family and my friend enjoy it, but they
want me to be better and better. And it hard to do.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Jazz.. But until now, i only can hear it from the radio.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
It can make our feeling to be happy, relax, sad, being younger, especially i can entertain other people.
Thanks.. (Sorry if my english bad)
Keyla Porras says
Dear Lisa thank you for this amazing opportunity to finally fulfill my dream, here are my answers:
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
The main challenge that I have always had holding me back has been money issues, from the first moment i saw a piano i fell in love but since my family had immigrated from Peru the only job my mother could get was as a cleaner, all the money she earned was spent on feeding and clothing me and my sisters, so even though she saw how much I wanted to play it was not possible for her to buy me anything. As I grew up I tried to push any ideas of playing the piano aside since i knew it would not be possible, but fortunately one christmas I was given a small child’s keyboard. I was overjoyed and took to practising as soon as possible, I learnt the names of the notes a few simple songs that came with the keyboard, but this only took me so far since I would only use one hand and I did not learn how to read music. As the years went by I received a bigger keyboard from my godfather since he had realised how much I longed to play, like this I taught myself the majority of the chords. I took my keyboard to uni when I moved to Manchester hoping to find cheap lessons but this was not possible, but that year as I searched online for cheap lessons, I came across your free lessons which amazed me and I have gone practised them over and over again trying to move my fingers correctly, but this small intro is not enough since I want to develop and I want to grow in my music and even though it has helped I seem to have become stuck in this level.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
My main obstacle has always been the money issue, and also I feel that I have not believed in myself, I tend to do well and then if I make a mistake I put myself down, because I want to succeed so badly, I seem to be stuck at the same level, I want to be able to look at a piece of music and just allow my fingers to flow and unlock the secret of the beautiful sound hidden in the music sheets, but since I cannot as of yet read music I get frustrated and downhearted.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I love all music but in particular I have been touched by the music of Alicia Keys, which sounds quite simple but when I looked up the notes online I was shocked by how complicated it looked…
Also one of my favourite songs which I have played and sang in church before though not very well since i only played the main chords and no real melody, is “Shout to The Lord”. Another one which I would like to play for my mum since it helped her through a tough patch is “By the Power of your Love” both of which I know in English and in Spanish.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
1: My greatest benefit would be the feeling of accomplishment that I would feel since I have wanted to play the piano since I was atleast 7years old. Just being able to do what I have always dreamed of.
2:I have always wanted to sing and play for my Lord, I have had the opportunity before to play in church but I felt like it wasn’t good enough, I want the music I play to be worthy of Him.
3: As I said before I want to be able to play that song for my mum, who has been a great inspiration in my life and I love more than anybody else, for the way she has always put us first, especially at this time of the year I remember how special our christmases have been even though she had money problems she would never let us feel it at this time.
Thank you for reading this and considering my entry, I also very thankful for your free lessons and for the fact that you believe anyone who truly wants to can play the piano, it is exactly how I feel.
Merry christmas!
Keyla
Carol J Davis says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
The main challenge holding me back from playing the piano is based on an experience that I had as a child of eight or nine years old trying to learn to play the piano. The only pianist in the church where my family were members was self taught and very limited in what she knew and what she could play. What I liked about her was that she was faithful and she gave us her very best. Because my Mom knew I loved piano, she bought me a new one and asked the church pianist to give me lessons. She did, and I learned to play what the pianist played as well as her style. As a results, I was only as good as the pianist, I could only play what she played, and I was never able to produce the beautiful sounds that I love so much from the piano. Over the years, I took lessons again and actually learned to read music somewhat, but I could still never produce that wonderful piano sound that I love so much. As a result, I gave up.
*
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
The other obstacles keeping me from playing the piano are really the ones I have placed on myself; self-limiting beliefs that I have no talent or ability to play, and lack of confidence that I can actually learn adequately to produce beautiful music. And time is always a factor in any endeavor. However, I believe that I can now overcome all of these challenges with God’s help, your help, and my determination to succeed.
*
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I love music, period! I love Gospel for the spiritual uplift it brings. I love Christian Contemporary for the way it speaks to our modern living. I love Smooth Jazz for those times when I just want to hear more of the instruments. I love Easy Listening when I am alone. I love Old School Soul when I want to reminisce. I love Light Classical for the culture and my brain. I love Hip Hop & Rap (clean version) because young people are so gifted and talented in this arena. And all of these types and styles of music speaks to the singer, songwriter, worshipper and praiser in me. But, my most favorite, most wonderful time of the year and its music is Christmas. I love Christmas and Jesus it celebrates. So, I would love to be able to play piano as I sing Silent Night and all the wonderful songs of the season with my family and friends by this time next year.
*
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
The three greatest benefits I’ll enjoy are:
a. I will accomplish a dream to play piano that I have had since I was a child.
b. I will be able play piano for my Mom who is also a singer. She has sang for years at home, at church with choirs, and by request for various church functions. And, at 88 years young, she still sings all the time.
c. I am a role model! So, I will establish for my beautiful five grandchildren ages 11, 8, 7 (girls), 4 and 2 (boys) that they (anyone) can accomplish their dreams at any stage of their lives and that age and ability is never a hinderance for completing any good thing they set their minds and hearts to do. Maybe learning to play the piano might be just the thing to help me learn to play my guitar as well.
Thank you, Lisa, for this opportunity to express my thoughts in this manner. I would not have written like this if you had not presented this moment in time. I have read most of the comments sent to you, and I am so impressed. I hope that you will keep this page because the comments are so inspiring and encouraging. And thank you for having the heart of a teacher. Your care, concern, and love comes through loud and clear. You have a very big job of choosing the winners, so may your choices come from God because only he knows who will actually use their gift, ability, and talent to His Glory. Merry Christmas and a blessed 2009 to you and your family!
Eleanor says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano? Finding time
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed? Age.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play? The Lord’s Prayer
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano? Peace, Comfort, DeStresses Me.
Filiana says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
The main challenge that holds me back from playing the piano is i’m a person that need experience it (practice) more than theory. I need a person/video that i can learn practically.
n if i got into a course it’s Costly for me, the problem is i’m not really strong in financial. If i learn from Youtube or any other free website, it usually not the same level as i have, sometimes it’s too hard and sometimes it’s too easy for me, not like what i’m looking for.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like youʼve always dreamed?
The other obstacles for me to play the piano is: the music sheet. I can’t really understand how to ready the music symbol in Music sheets.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Songs of worship and praise (christian songs). I have a big dream, that i have a chance to ministry in church by playing the keyboard. But with my skills now, it’s not enough to playing the Keyboard in the church.
4) What are the three greatest benefits youʼll enjoy from playing the piano?
– All of my feeling are pour out there. When i feel sad,i feel better after i play the piano (eventhough it’s not really professional).
– It’s really enjoyable to teach the other people to have the same skill like me/even better.
– After i play the piano, my worried is not that bad as the worried that i have before. Play Piano make me relax and Happy. 🙂
HANISAH says
1) what is the main challange holding you back from playing the piano?
i have no piano but recently my parents kindly bought me a keyboard.Now i can practice teacher’s vedio happly.
2)what are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
my participation on this free online piano paly are so limited.if i want to take any offer from this website i have to have a visa card (which i don’t have one). this make me even harder to play the piano like i always deamed. my country (Malaysia) far from yours and the visa card here is not the same as yours.
3)what song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
i always wanted to play this winter sonata song.i also wanted to play all type of songs.
4)what are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
i) if give me a sence of relaxation when i play the piano
ii) i can show to my family that i can play if gracefuly.
iii) i can listen to my play and that mekes me really happy.
Marcy says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
lack of resources. i mean, i really did not enroll in any band camp or something like that, so i only get my resources through available books in the library. However, library books does not include the cds that should be included in the book, so i have to guess if i’m in the right track or not.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
i guess there’s no more obstacles. I mean the lack of resources is there, financial crisis, blah blah. but im trying to look for a way out. I may not have a piano, but then i borrowed the keyboard of my cousin so i can play some notes. I mean if you really wanted to do something, you will always find a way out. well, that’s what i believe in, and that’s what i keep on doing 🙂
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I really wanted to play Hang sodara- arrangement. it’s one of the song used in My Sassy Girl and i’m really dying to play it. the problem is.. it’s too complicated for my level, but i’m practicing it step by step.
PLUS, there are also a dozen of classical music that i would love to learn.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Well, it is really relaxing. Whenever i have a bad-school-day, i make it to play some notes before i hit my tasks.
It is also addicting! playing the keyboard gives me an excuse to indulge on my addiction.
and lastly, it drives me to achieve something better in life. Doing something that i really like is really a self-fulfillment for me.
Sandra says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
I’m use to learning things quickly but when it came to the piano I had to practice and practice. It takes a lot of patience.
2)What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I’m currently in my final year of high school and so I’m feeling a lot of pressure from my parent who want me to perform well in an academic sense. I find it a little difficult to set aside time each day to play the piano because once I sit down and play and realise how much I’ve progressed I sort of get lost in the music and never want to get up.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Classical music because of its sheer complexity and the vast amount of emotion that it seems to convey.
4)What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
-Feeling of accomplishment and content because I have taken up a task that will continue to develop and strengthen throughout my lifetime. Learning to play the piano isn’t something that can come to an end. It is a skill that’ll continue to improve.
-When I come to play the piano I feel as if my worries or anything that was on my mind is simply washed away. The music occupies my mind. I feel as if the piano is a natural stress reliever it makes me forget about the past and the present and produces a soothing effect.
-Being able to play for my family and friends means a lot to me. It is often said that music is a universal language and I’d like to spread the happiness I receive from this language to all those around me. I don’t want to cover it up or hide it. I want everyone to feel the way I feel when I hear those soothing notes.
Sarah Cachia says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
When I started trying to learn the notes, I learned a few but then, when it came to playing the piano, I couldn’t read the notes and then play at the same time. I ended up learning the song using the notes, but then I used to memorize it and play it without notes.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I go to dancing lessons and so I am a bit busy. I don’t mind adding something else to my timetable, but my mum told me its too much. So I couldn’t go to piano lessons. But for online lessons she will give it a thought as I don’t have to leave home.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I love all songs that you can play with the piano. Right now I’m listening a lot to Richard Clayman’s song ‘ Ballade pour Adeline’ I really hope someday I would learn how to play it.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Finding a way to relax, and understanding music more as in rythm. For dancing knowing how to dance with the rythm of the music is very important and classical ballet is danced with piano music, so it will help me more in dancing.
glenda says
1- worrying if I’m playing the rhythm right I really need help there.
2-my hands are little and it can be hard and I have arthritis in my hands.
3-gospel and blues I love these;; I would love to learn the blues to mix in with the gospel.
4-A way to Praise the Lord ,to play in church,to just sit and play sweet peaceful music,at family gatherings
Carolyn Nguyen says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Yes, I come from the poor country, so everything is difficult. However, I always wish that I could play Piano with my hands. That such as a dream of mine. I don’t know how can I tell you what is the main reason that make me come to Piano. I only know that I’ll be enjoyed in my life with Piano. I love playing Piano, that make me happy and forget tress or everything that is not good for me to remember!
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I always look the playing Piano as a dream of mine. Because I don’t have a Piano for myself. It’s not good to hear. But, I promised I am going to buy one for me while I have enough money! And I’ll never forget my dream, I’ll try tomake it come true soon!
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I wanted to play all kind of music. But, at first, I wanted to play the songs about family, teachers,,,I’ll play that kind of songs to thank my parents for caring me until now safely, and thank my teacher for teaching me more new and useful knowledge. One of those teachers is you! You always give me the lessons that could hepl me alots to make one of my dream come true! Thank you very much!
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Uhm, let me see. perhaps I have many,,,
Here is 3 greatest benefits from playing the piano:
1. I am happier, and the listener is also.
2. It makes my life better, without bored and tress….
3. And I know life is interesting, there are a lot of nice things that worth for us to live until the last day we have!
Wish that evrerything will be ok forever!
Wish you and all the students of yours…..have a nice Chirstmas, my teacher, I’ll remember you as a part of my life!
Babak says
Question 1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Answer : If somebody love to learn Piano or anyother instruments, nothing can avoid her/him. there is just a need for WANT and ACHIEVEMENT.
But anyway, there are pretexts such as having not enough time, no energy,etc.
Question 2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Answer : Nothing but pretexts.
Question 3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Answer :Classical songs are my favourite songs.
Question 4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Answer : 1- gaining self confidence
2- absorbing energy
3-expressing my emotions and states
Thanks for all of your lessons
cielo amar says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
I still am a student who lives in a dormitory inside our university. there is no piano or keyboard in my dormitory thus, i have to endure the long ride home just so i can press a few keys on the piano. My perseverance is limited because i still have to finish mmy degree so i can help provide for my family.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I fear that i may falter as a host to such passion and desire. I certainly love the piano (that i cannot Doubt), but it certainly is so much harder than i thought. my skill is poor even after days of practice. sometimes i feel that my fingers can’t feel my love to music.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
i like classic love songs and yiruma’s works.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
i have always thought that after i play this particular song (I love you Goodbye) in front of my friend, i can finally get over my first love, my first heartache after years of tears. So i Can let other wonderful things start in my life. That being said, i know that i won’t limit my self with only three benefits because getting over such a dark part of my life will help me holistically.
I see a glimmer of hope whenever i play the piano.
Susan Long says
1) Trying to find more uninterrupted time to play the piano. Since I homeschool my children, this can be a real challenge. Because I love music and especially the piano, I find myself taking whatever little snatches of time I can find to play. If I miss a day of playing, I feel incomplete like a part of myself is missing. I love playing that much.
2) Finding the right teacher is not easy. Since personal lessons are so expensive, I have been using self teaching methods for the past couple of decades. It is frustrating to know that although I have played for over 30 years, I still don’t understand enough about playing music with a natural flow. I am still in the dark about runs, chord progressions, and how to create a professional sound that makes the music come alive.
3) I love classical music and show tunes because they stir up the emotions and speak to the heart far better than any words ever could.
4) Piano music is a great way to let go of all your problems and to step into a world of beautiful sound.
Sharing a beautiful piece of music is a personal gift that people often remember after other gifts are long forgotten. Playing the piano is a chance to express yourself creatively as only you can.
Colinda K. Abner says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
I feel that I am too old to learn. It is something that I have always wanted to do for as long as I can remember.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I do not have a piano but I do have a keyboard and I do not really have a place to set it up but I could probably find one if I could get past the thought I am too old.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Any and all. I love music. It just makes the soul feel good and the piano is just such a beautiful sound.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
relaxation, beautiful music that I am playing and also I would get to share some happiness with others.
Sabrina says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Recently I have no piano or keyboard for me to learn to play the piano.. after founding this cool website and my interest in learning piano my husband buy me a keyboard for a start.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I am so fond of playing the piano but sadly I dont now the keywords and the right way on how to play the piano.. and thanks again now I know a bit after finding this free website on how to play the piano very easy.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
all kinds of song and music!
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
i.Finally I can fulfill my dreams and someday I will buy my own piano when I am really good at it.
ii. I feel happy and enjoy and that I can sing my favourite song and in the same time play the piano.
iii. I can be someone like a piano artist : ).
Gilberto Sanchez says
Hi Lisa:
1) At this point in life my only challenge is to make sure that I learn to play the piano. Lately I have been reading books about personal achievement, goals, attitude, etc., so I feel and I know that 2009 will be my best year in life and I will be able to play the piano in family, by next Christmas.
2) Obstacles are excuses for not doing it. So like I just mentioned, my new 2009 attitude will eliminate all the obstacles on the road.
3) Romantic (Spanish music), my main language. I don’t read music, I don’t play any musical instrument yet, but a few years ago I wrote a Spanish song and I I selected the rhythm, then I paid someone to write it musically. Later on I sent it to a NY-NJ-PA Spanish contest and it was selected as part of the last 12 songs but didn’t make to first place. That was a great experience.
4) Many benefits: (a) A will finally make a dream come true. (b) In my family we celbrate everything, so I want to be the first one in my family to play an instrument and to do it on all birthdays and other special ocassions. (c) I will be able to write and play my own songs (I already have eleven of them) and why not, I will be looking for someone to interprete them. (d) I will have fun doing this and I will make sure that I do my best with it.
Angie Lipscomb says
The four questions are:
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
We adopted our son, Jordan, when he was 2. We did not expect the journey to be so difficult. We have learned alot over the last 9 years, about patience, endurance, love and mercy. We learned we could have never done it on our own. God has shown us his love and mercy and over time we have learned to accept our circumstances, but in doing so, we will not give up on our dreams for our son. We learned how love will carry you through each day even though a child with multiple disabilities takes alot of your time. Somedays are exhausting, but in the end very rewarding. We are grateful for him.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I have Fibromyalgia which is exhausting, but listening to the piano is a source of comfort and release.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Breath of Heaven, is one of my most favorite songs. It sounds so beautiful. You can lose yourself in it.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
The freedom and ability to play anything I want, anytime I want. I would love to become confident enough to play the piano for our church.The piano can relax your mind and soothe your soul. It is like learning a new language, but in learning the piano, you can speak to the world.
Vivian Banks says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano? Myself, Excuses.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed? Knowing how to use my abilities.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play? mainly Gospel. I would like to know how to play any kind of music.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano? Goal accomplished.(personal),
will be able to teach others share my abilities.
Blessing to others by playing.
Meadows A. Seun says
(Question 1)
The main Challenge holding me back from playingg the pino is fund. for now, i dont have my own personal piano so i do borrow from a friend who will only give it to me if he is not going to use it at particular time. I am trying to safe some money so that i could buy mine.
(Question 2)
Not having a personal piano is my greatest obstacle. in addition, reading music sheets for now is difficult. Also, when i play at times, some people say i am just making noise, they laugh at me and my fingring is not too ok for now.
(Question 3)
The type of music i have always wanted to play is jazz. i love and enjoy how it sounds when people people play it.
(Question 4)
From playing the piano,
1. I will enjoy the fact that i am making myself and people around me happy.
2. I will be well known and people will respect me.
3. I will enjoy the fact that i am changing people’s emotions and feelings, they will forget about sorrows and be happy.
Jacqueline Champier says
Hello Lisa:
I always know that you are the best piano teacher in the world, now i also believe that you are one of the kindest persons. I was sure that i would be able to afford the lessons when you offered it to me for 50% but that did not work out, i almost kicked myself when i came to me email a few days too late to see that you were offering it for free and i missed that also. I am not going to give up and I will check my email everyday just to see what you are saying, i also know that 2009 will be my year to get the lessons that i am so longing to get, I have learnt so much from the free lessons. Thank you for not giving up on anyone.
I would to enter the contest as I really need to get a prize, I would make good use of it and you would be pround of me. Here are my answers to the four questions.
The main thing holding me back from playing the piano is the fact that I cannot afford the one year lessons as yet, I feel happy though because I know there is hope for me to play the piano one day, i cant explain it to you but it is something that I can feel in my bones. I did very well with the free lessons and I surprised myself by even playing four hours per day. As soon as I have the extra lessons (anyhow I am to get it, I will) I will be able to play. I am sure of that, as I said before, I feel in my pulse, my bones.
The other obstacles holding me back is that I was doing very well with your lessons but I watched a skilled musician and that was when I learned that I had the wrong concept of playing. Let me explain. While I was enjoying the free lessons I thought that I would only need to use one finger on my right hand to press one key at a time while my left hand will be playing chords.
It dawned on me that as a professional I would use more than one fingers on my right hand at a time. I tried this out and I got discouraged. I wondered if I would ever be able to do that, that was the last time i tried to play. So i would say that I lost confidence in what I would be able to do even before I let you show me how to keep it, one step at a time.
3. I am married to a Pastor and he has four churches but I often visit many churches, in some of these churches the people are not even able to afford a keyboard, much more to have someone play for them. When I listen to the people singing without the keyboard I get a vision of how much better they would sound if I could provide music. I have a keyboard so if I could only play gospel music, I know that I would bless the hearts of many people and make their worship experience richer. Another reason why I want to play is that music calms my soul and I love to go to funerals and hear people play a special piece of music. It comforts the berieved. I have a dream that I have never shared with anyone befeore, that is if my mother should die before me, i would want to comform my family members by playing something relaxing at her funeral.
Three great benefits from playing are:
The inner peace that I enjoy when I play. (The little that I can play, not only that but each day that I come home from a hectic day at work, it is only the soft sound of music that can actually calm my soul.
Another great benefit is the great joy that music gives to those who are listening to it, the hearers. When I am able to play something to help another person to feel better then I also feel better.
Another great benefit is the discipline that it instills in me, I find out that when I commit myself to spending quality time at the keyboard then it helps me in other thing as well. When I disciple myself to play I am always able to disciple myself to do other things which helps me to be a more focused and happy person. I did not know that music was so inspirational until I started to play with the bonus songs, thank you so much for helping me to realise that I can do it, I only need to believe in myself. Thank you for everything.
Jackie
Susan MacKenzie says
I have an old piano that I dearly love – it’s circa 1881, and when my mom no longer had the room for it, it got passed around to family members that had the room and young children learning to play. When the young children grew up and wanted the more expensive and newer digital pianos, it was offered to me, just as I was about to move from my home town to a new city. The piano is my link to my mom who now lives 2 provinces away……. I want to learn to play very well so when she visits in July (after her 90th birthday), I can play some of her (and her mother’s) favourite songs
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano? My left hand, believe it or not….. When my mom had this piano I now have, she told me to start with my right, and I learned how to read music for my right, and play with it, but my left was forgotten in my pleasure at being able to hear the melody on my right!
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed? Listening to others play so well (Like my Church organist) that I feel like it would take forever to sound like her.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play? Traditional/Popular show tunes (Ave Maria; The Entertainer; Whispering Hope).
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano? 1. I’d play for my mom – she loves to hear me; 2. I’d play for myself – it’s such a beautiful expression of emotion and harkens back to a time when families gathered around the piano to sing. 3.I’d love to learn to play well enough so I could play @ my church, and help the music director who is sorely overworked – she’s recently announced she needs a break, and I know it will take awhile, but everyone needs a break now & then!
Ashleigh René Bowling says
First of all let me say I am really lucky to have found this site:) Merry Christmas:)
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Well, I don’t own a piano. But I am completely dedicated in playing and I have been practicing on my awesome teacher’s piano at school:) I also found an online virtual piano to practice on:)
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
-no money to buy piano
-never had much time
-no one to teach me:( (i have taught myself…along with the fact of my best friend Shawna helping me!)
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
For me… I LOVE classical and christmas music:)
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Well. Right now I’m just a Thirteen year old with a dream of becoming a master pianoist, but I might become a piano teacher. It is a soothing instrument and I think it relieves stress…I have got a lot of stress:) And finally, I just think I would enjoy it in general to get the chance to learn this instrument and be lucky enough to actually get to play it:)
Shelby says
1)What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
My fingers just don’t want to move fast enough to play the song correctly. Plus I just do not have enough time. When I get home and done doing things i am so tired.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Bad teachers(not you),time,and distractions.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Rock,Pop,Classic,Blues.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Playing for people, getting the pride of beining able to play,and making myself happy.
Unkle says
(1) The main reason holding me back from playing piano is that i cant interprest the playing sheet notation and also i do not have my personal piano to practice
wenever i fill like study the piano.
(2) Others are! lake of time, you know as a self strugly boy who is trying to survive with what to do inother to earn a leaving everyady.
(3) I always want to play jazz, classical, blues and sentimental musics.
(4) a. The greatest benefit that i acheive wenever i play piano is that the present of God will come upon me and
it makes my spirit,soul and body very excited
(b.)It’s my happiness wenever i play and people will be blessed and get excited in his presence and it also makes me very popular
(C.) I always have good money wenever i play piano,
and i enjoying teaching other people the little i know .
Cheers and merry Xmas and happy new year in advance.
anish thomas says
3.i would love to play A.R Rahmans melodies,he is one of my favourite musicians..and of course i’m into rock music…
4.enhances my connection to the soul.
i become aware of my true nature which is the oneness with mother nature herself.
i will be loved more by my loved ones as i would be able to bring joy to their hearts on xmas as well as all around the year by playing my piano.
anish thomas says
1. First of all, the more i learn, the more i become unconfident as i fear if icould be as good as i dream to be..as such, i’m aspired that much and maybe that could be of a negative effect in the form of an obstacle.
2. how i wish to be able to immerse myself totally into something that i love doing the most!but unfortunately we have to earn our daily bread that keeps us from our favorites..lack of time that too after a hard days toil,leaves us numb without any energy left.
Clark says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano? One word, TIME.
I work 10 – 12 hours per day, come home to responsibilities around the house. By the time 10P rolls around, I’m just too spent.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
While I love music and appreciate it in many forms, I feel I have zero aptitude to pick it up. One frustration is even if I can pick up simple tunes by ear or fumble through reading sheet music, I don’t seem to recall the tune later, much like an actor forgetting lines, I just become blank.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
While I like and appreciate a diverse range of music, the classic rock I grew up with is my favorite.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
4a) My dad was an accomplished jazz multi-instrumentalist; his favorite instrument was the piano. While I always wanted him to teach me, he never seemed to have the time or for that matter, the patience.
My dad is 81 now and has livesd several hundred miles away since I was 16. He still plays and though he regrets never teaching me he does encourage my finding time to learn now as an adult. We talk about music and the mechanics of learning piano everytime we talk. I’d like to be able to converse more intellegibly about music with him.
4b) I work in a very mundane but yet technical industry. I feel as though I lack any artistic talent but yet feel frustrated to find a way to express myself through some artistic and creative outlet.
4c) I love to learn. Learning something that I can use as a means to express myself would provide wonderful satisfaction.
Jose Gomez says
Hello and Good luck to all.
Ayswarrya says
Hi Lisa,
I am Ayswarrya. I’m 18 years old & I’m a first year engineering student doing Electronics & Telecommunication course. I subscribed to your free lessons in May,this year and voila! I have actually learnt & progressed a lot {thanks to you}, atleast successful enough to win the Talent competition in my college & also make my friends envious of my skills.
I think that’s enough for an introduction.My answers to your questions:
1)What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Lisa, I play a small 32- key synthesizer{that’s all I can afford} which works on electricity. I live in an area where there is 8-hour load-shedding per day. Also, being an engineering student, I’m always hard-pressed for time. After 6 hours of college and 4-hours of travelling, I barely find time to cope up with my studies. The only free time I get is after 8 p.m. & the load-sheeding time extends till 11:00 p.m. So, I practice piano from 11:00p.m. to 11:30p.m.{I have to sleep at 11:30p.m coz next day, I have to wake up at 4:00 a.m. to reach college at 7:00 a.m.} So, mostly, I practice on Sundays.Thus, I practically have to steal time!
2)What are the other obstacles keeping you nfrom playing the piano you have always dreamed?
When I was an 8-year old, I saw a mickey mouse cartoon in which mickey was playing a piano with floating hands. I was fascinated and decided that one day, I will play the piano. My main problem was I couldn’t find a tutor when I was small and had time.You see, I live in a small town where there where no tutors save one & he was too expensive. At that time, we didn’t have a computer.{the one we have now is one that I won as a scholarship}. When I was 15, I met a person who was ready to teach at a very reasonable rate.Thus, he taught me the piano basics using Indian musical notes{sa re ga ma…} & also persuaded my mom to buy the second-hand 32-key piano as it was the cheapest.Unfortunately, he died 2 years ago due to a severe cardiac arrest. (He was,is & always will be my inspiration.)A few months back, we had a computer and mom decided to install the net. The first thing I did was to search for free piano tutorials & that’s how I found your fantastic site. Your video clippings have helped me alter my fingerings so much that they do seem like floating, to some extent.Thanks so much. My career in piano was given a momentum by you.The only problem is my piano size.It doesn’t give much room for me to use both hands. So, my songs sound monotonous & I can play only songs of C as only those fit in fully in my piano. But, many of my favorites are in F,G etc. for which I can play only my right hand! I want to excel in playing songs with both hands which is something I haven’t achieved yet.
3)what song type have you always wanted to play?
I heard the Fur Elise for the first time a year ago & immediately fell in love with it{though I regret I cannot play it beyond its first stanza with both hands}. In general, I love classical as they generate a kind of serenity that I haven’t found elsewhere. Apart from this,the other song I’m crazy about is Titanic’s My Heart Will Go On and Pirate’s ofCarribean’s He’s a Pirate. Classical is what I have always wanted to play coz they make me composed & peaceful.
4)what are the three great benefits that you’ll enjoy from playing piano?
Firstly, whenever I play piano, I am in a completely different world where I am alone & the only sound is the sound of melody. It provides a respite from the routine problems I face daily. It freshens me & rejuvenates me so that I can start my work anew with fresh vigour.
Secondly, whenever I play piano, my mom & bro enjoy the pleasing soind. Whenever I play, they gather around me & listen me play. Mom says that she feels happy whenever I play the piano.I cherish this fact that I can make people happy by playing the piano.
Thirdly, since I have started playing piano, my creativity has improved. Also, my memory has become stonger.Indirectly, playing the piano has helped me in my academics too.
There, I have given answers to your questions & also how I came to love piano. As a final note, I wish to say that I’ll never quit playing piano for two reasons, first, as a mark of gratitude to my late piano teacher & second, for the love of music. That’s il.Also, thanks for the free lessons which have improved my skills manifold.
Wish you a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!
Love,
Ayswarrya.
Arnie Linder says
Before I answer the questions I would first like to say that you are wonderful. Thanks for reminding me that piano playing is about having fun and it is not about how good you are but just to enjoy playing. Always a ~smile~.
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
This question is real tough to answer. I am 48 and have been trying to play for about three years now. I practice almost daily sometimes many hours in a day but I can’t seem to progress beyond rudimentary playing. I have purchased several online piano courses, “sadly not yours”, and they have helped very little. I can usually bang out notes written on sheet music but lack being able to put feeling into the songs. I have listened to many piano players and thought how awesome their ability is when I just struggle to plunk out a few notes.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed? Another challenge I have is remembering. I spend many hours learning a song but if I don’t practice it for a few months I have to relearn how to play it.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play? I hope that some day that I will be able to play accompianment at church for contemporary christian music.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano? I would like to play at a level that others gain interest and enjoyment at what I am playing. I would like to be confident enough that when someone asks me to play a song that fear wouldn’t override my playing ability. I would also like to teach others that would like to learn.
‘
Jim Babcock says
OK, so here goes.
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
I am a father of 3 littles one. My challenge is finding time. When I am sitting at the piano, I feel like I should either be trying to make more money, playing with the kids, helping clean the house, cutting the lawn or something else. If I were pretty good at playing the piano, where the sounds coming off of those keys were, how should I say it, more pleasant, then I might feel better. If I could actually entertain with my piano, then my guilt would reduce and I could play freely.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
If I were good enough that I could actually share my experience with my kids, then that would be a win-win for everyone. I don’t expect to be able to show them how to become Bach, but if I could get them to the point where they were interested, then my playing the piano would be of value to the family. The other thing is, of course, money. Each lesson is $40-$60 and that spending becomes money that could have gone to a 529 plan, retirement plan, a new couch, a computer or a dinner out. Plain and simple, that is money spent selfishly on me and that doesn’t seem fair either in my family environment.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I really, really really want to be able to play some blues and jazz. I’d also like to be the guy at a party who can whip off a few current hits like they were easy. But first and foremost, I want to be able to play improvisational blues. I sounds that come off the piano with the flats and varying speeds are incredible to hear. I have a few very remedial things I can play that to me are so fun. But it would be simply amazing to be able to start playing some blues and just play what I feel. For what little I can play, I really enjoy it. I always think about how amazing I would feel if I could actually grow my repertoir into something that would make my friends and family say “Wow, I really enjoyed listening to Jim.”
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
a. When I play I am able to forget those things around me that drive me crazy. Life’s challenges kind of disappear. A sort of emotional leveling occurs.
b.To be able to entertain others. If I could really learn to play and play well, I would always have people come into the room with the piano and I could make them sing or laugh. It would be simply awesome. This would add a new dimension to my life that just does not exist today.
c. I believe the piano opens up new parts of the mind. I believe if I expand my mind via piano, I may become more astute at other aspects of life. I wish I felt this way when I was 8 years old, then I would have been able to learn these skills more easiliy. Or maybe not, at 42 perhaps this is the best time in life to expand, test and strengthen the mind.
Chuck Moschetti says
Yo Lisa!
Here ya go…..
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Nonthing. Absolutely nothing! I am recently retired and believe that mental fitness is just as important as physical fitness. But just like going to the gym or running, you have to MAKE yourself work out mentally everyday and thats not always easy. Thats where Lisa comes in. The consant nagging and torment and torture and daliy beatings all really help!
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
All joking aside, I’ve played the guitar and mandolin since childhood, but have never really learned to sight read music properly. I’ve tried formal lessons but after
a month of Hannon scales…well you know… 🙁
I have a beautiful piano at home, enough time, and lots of desire, but I need the structure of routine and it has to be a FUN thing…
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Oh I dont care, some of all of it I guess. Old Rock n Roll, the Blues, melodic stuff like Bob Seger, Ray
Charles…but I want SONGS, not scales with a metronome!
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
> Mental fitness never ends, it should be a PLEASANT daily routine.
> Personal accomplishment in learning new things and ways to use them and the freedom to improvise.
> I’d love to meet others folks who feel like I do, who get frustrated like I do, and who enjoy Lisa’s nagging and beatings like I do!
Jose Rosales says
Dear Lisa, my anwers to:
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Time..Time..Time, I work 8-5 everyday with two days off a week, I have not been able to practice every day, so my fingers “rust” if I do not play even for a week and then when I go back to practice I get very frustrated. I would like to find a method how to warm up my fingers before beginning a practice session (I’m not young anymore!)
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
a).-Would like to learn to read written music well, I’m in the process of learning but I play mostly simple pieces by ear and make my own arrangements of them. At this point I think I’m less dependent on written music but you know when you play by ear, I heard a song and I can practically sit down and start playing it but the next time I seat and play, I do not execute it the same way, This is an obstacle that I need to resolve
b).-I have an old piano (baby grand built in 1938) it sounds very good but it is not always in perfect tune. I have tuned this piano 4 times in the last two years and still not at 100% This is my second obstacle
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Pop and Jazz
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Increase my self-esteem
Enhance my emotional health
Take my mind off of stress by playing beautiful music
Marcus says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
I would have to say my busy schedule and the fact that I can play the guitar better then the piano. I just recently got married and bought a house so I do have my music room with my keyboard and guitar. But, in all honesty I love to worship God and I can only play my guitar and sing compared to me trying to play the keyboard and sing.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Understanding the written language of music. When I got your books I started right away. I was getting the hang of it until I got to the part where I had to change my fingers to different notes and play with both hands(second book). It gets frustrating sometimes, so I escape to a music instrument that I can play – my guitar.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I love to praise and worship God. I would have to say Christian music. It’s a way to relieve stress in my life and hopefully I can use it to give salvation to others someday.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
I’ll benefit from making others enjoy the beautiful music of life today. I’ll benefit from actually learning sheet music and be able to play anything on paper. Hopefully, someday be a worship leader in a church or go out on my own and bring salvation to those who have not learned of our savior Jesus Christ. There are so many benefits to list. I’m grateful for everything in my life and thank you again for your services. God Bless and Merry Christmas!!
Charmaine Waller says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Time and money. My son currently attends music lessons with a private tutor and next year my daughter will also be starting with lessons. As you know, private lessons are very expensive and a as a result, there is no money left for me to also be able to attend lessons.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
The biggest obstable at this stage is not being able to read music and also not knowing what to do with my hands. I am so desperate to play that I have made a cheat sheet for myself, where I put the notes on a piece of paper on the keys so that I know what keys they are. I then got my son to transcribe the music notes for me into alphabetical notes so that I could try and play. It does work, but I feel that unless I really learn how to read music and know the keys on the piano, I will never really be able to play the piano as I would like.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I love all kinds of music and my desire is to be able to play so well that I will be able to play any piece of music, either with or without music sheets and sing along to my hearts content. My mother sings in the opera chorus and in the choir. She can read music and and one stage both her and my brother started learning to play the guitar. I am the only one in the family who does not play or sing. My mother says that I am tone deaf, which may be true as my son can hear when he has played the wrong note, but I cannot always tell.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
I have such a strong desire to learn to play and be a part of the music in the family. I also love music and what it does to my soul. How it relaxes me and makes me feel good. To be able to open the piano cover, and just play and sing, would be a dream come true for me. I believe that music also allows one to express oneself in a way that no other can. Happy or sad there is music for every emotion. I woild also dearly love to learn to read music and play so that I can help my children with their learning process as at this stage I am completely useless to them, in this regard.
S G Wilson says
Hello, i am Stuart from a little valley in Scotland, 21 and I Love music.
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
the fact i have a lot to do most of the time that restricts me like trying to find a job and doing my course work. I also have a lot of other hobbies to compete with, because i like to learn new things.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
Time and forgetting to practice once in a while, i used to be pretty good at practicing but lately its kind of faded with everything else that’s been going on.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Ive always wanted to compose my own classical/orchestral music, I love how the music makes you feel so much so I went and did a degree on it.
But mostly anything now, just watching a concert pianist and everyone else play the piano effortlessly making people feel good makes be a bit jealous.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Confidence and It helps me towards my dream job of a music composer and I believe everyone should have the chance to learn an instrument to express themselves so i feel good that I’m trying to do it myself.
Ginny Pier says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
It was raising nine children, filling their needs took up time for myself. I’m 66 yrs. old and play piano at a level 3-4 self taught. I’d have to honestly say reading the bass clef & trebble clef notes at the same time. No matter how hard I try I’m always too slow to keep up with the time signiture. It takes me forever to learn a new Classical piece one measure at a time. My challenge is to work hard and learn how to play well before my time is up.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
It’s not lack of determination because I’ve spent five,six, seven hrs. and more …day after day, week after week for two years and I’m still on the low end of intermediate reading music. I’m having trouble staying focused on one problem at a time. So jumping around picking up bits and pieces is definitly keeping me in limbo at this time. My husband says I’m good enough … what he doesn’t realize I don’t practice hrs. everyday just to be good my desire is to be my best.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I love Classical and can actually play it mediocre, but the down side is it takes me measure by measure very slowly in a few weeks I have learned one song. Less then ten in a year, and my goal is to play all piano sheet music with ease. Because, I love Ragtime, Blues, jazz & Gospel. I have a deep desire to play it all!
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
1. Knowing that I didn’t just have the desire to learn to play the piano, but that I had the motivation to do it.
2. When I have finally learned a song after struggling with it for too many hrs. I care to admit. I feel so good because I no longer have to hear that song played by another person, I can play it myself… the greatest reward for me.
3. My children and Grand children come to visit Grandma, they’ll see no matter what age you are you can keep on learning and be sucessful at it. I’ll be able to influence their musical desires too.This wonderful piano won’t be sitting in the corner any longer waiting for someone to do it justice and Love it!
Thank you for the questions because after analyzing my comments I realize why I’m so determined. If that makes any sense.
God bless.
Ginny
Lisa says
Dear Lisa,
I have used your free piano lessons with my four children (and myself!) over the past 2 years and am impressed at what they can learn at such an early age (and me, at such a late age!) I’d love to have access to more of your materials, but haven’t been able to afford it, so I’ll try my luck with your contest J
The four questions are:
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Finding time to practice (uninterrupted) with four children ages 4, 6, 8, and 10 is a challenge. At this point in my life, “me” time is not plentiful. But I find that the times I do sit down and plunk away, it is good for the children to see Mom working on something until it sounds good. They get more interested when they see me involved. Long after I have finished my practice time, they take turns with their own folders at their own levels and are eager to move on to learn more. It is worth it to MAKE time and spend time when I see the dividends in my children.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
I need to work and practice through the levels until I can sight read at the level that I would like. Especially notes above or below the staff lines, I have to “count” my way up, but with practice, I will learn to recognize those more readily. I find that in keys where there are more than 2 sharps or flats, I have a mild panic-attack and I have to think reeeely hard while reading the music. I still need to gain a better knowledge of chords and their uses so that I can start making some music of my own. This brain of mine is full of great things, I just don’t know where to put them!
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I would love to play music like David Foster. Free and flowy, not chunky chords like hymns. There are a few pop songs and some great 1980s keyboards that would be wonderful to be able to master as well.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
I like the places that music takes me. I am a dancer as well, so music for me is a path to a place where I can move and be expressive.
I find it soothing and relaxing to hear and make great music. It is rewarding to practice enough to perform a song that sounds good and that will bless others.
Music is good exercise for my brain! I take care of my body, but my brain needs a good work-out too and I find reading and playing music on the piano stretches me to think in ways that other everyday tasks don’t.
So, there it is. I hope you have a great Christmas and I pray that you will have many wonderful times in the coming New Year.
Thanks so much for the materials you have made available. Your web-site is full of great information. I am a teacher (on leave for raising our family, but I will go back to it eventually) and from the educational point of view, you are right on in your approach and I appreciate your positive and encouraging manner. Even through emails and the internet, that shines through!
Diana Hickman says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
The biggest challenge that holds me back from playing the piano is not having room for a real piano. All I have is a 32 key keyboard that is only big enough to play with one hand. I live in an apartment so it’s hard for me to find room to do the things that I enjoy.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
The other thing that is holding me back is finding the time to play while I’m working on my thesis. I know that if I had a bigger piano/keyboard I would be able to unwind when I get stressed out by playing again.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
I have always wanted to play the classical pieces. They are so beautiful. When I play them I feel as if the worlds troubles have been lifted away and I can “breathe” again. Because the keyboard only allows me to play them one-handed, I don’t get to play them as they should be played. Either way, it still comes out beautiful and a piece of my heart in each compilation.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
I took a music course as a fourth year elective. I failed the course because I couldn’t get a handle on reading music, but through the course I learned how to play a little keyboard. It turned out to be relaxing for me. Not the learning how to read music part, but the playing part. My dad had another heart attack and music is what brought me through that time. I played in the chapel to calm myself as my dad was getting his stints put in his heart. Then later when I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, the only thing that kept me sane was music. I listened to the classical works of Chaucer and Bach and felt calm again. I even tried my hand at playing their movements. The only thing that kept me sane was this through all the feelings of helplessness that I felt, I found comfort from these men who created such beautiful works of art. I could put all the passion and stress that I was feeling into playing music. I felt that I could beat my cancer and that I would be okay. I haven’t been able to play for months now becuase my Keyboard broke, but during the time that I was playing the keyboard, even though I could only play one-handed, I found comfort and hope in the music that I was learning.
Thank you.
Di
Jusrin says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
♥For me,the main challenge is the symphony and melody itself.Because every note piece is important.If i could play the harmony,I could bring the music into life.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
♥If the great blind pianists could make such tremendous music,why couldn’t I?It’s been a nice time playing the piano itself.Even I couldn’t be such a great pianists like them at least I could play such heart melting songs.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
♥I always love playing sonatas.And my favorite among them is Canon By Pachelbel.
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
♥I experience a once in a lifetime dream.When I play the piano,I feel happy by just listening to the symphony.It’s been a pleasure to play a nice song.And playing it with such honor is already a success for me.
Aylene says
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
The main challenge that holds me back from playing the piano is the music sheet reading. The notes and all the other symbols are overwhelming.
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like youʼve always dreamed?
The eye and hand coordination, the piano playing itself. I think it’s very hard especially to someone like me who is a little bit old already.
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Songs of praises and love.
4) What are the three greatest benefits youʼll enjoy from playing the piano?
I could use it in the church. I could teach my kids and we could sing along together happily. I could compose songs of praises to God.
I really want to learn piano. Goodluck to me!
Thanks!
Raj says
Dear Teacher,
My answers to
1) What is the main challenge holding you back from playing the piano?
Energy vs Time- I need only 10 muinutes to do this everyday but on all week days after work even if I have all the time before bed I do not have the energy or rather patience to connect the Piano and open the book and then try (remembering) what I did last time…(am I getting too idle)…but if I am plugged it is not 10 minutes it is on & on & on..
2) What are the other obstacles keeping you from playing the piano like you’ve always dreamed?
(If you dont tell my wife ) My wife…she is happy that I am learning Piano … but she hates me when I call her amidst her busy cooking just to test myself if I doing correctly……
3) What song or type of music have you always wanted to play?
Indian semi classical / film play back
4) What are the three greatest benefits you’ll enjoy from playing the piano?
Make myself happy
Make others who listen Happy
Relax and enjoy the success of doing a song correctly at one attempt….