Have you wanted to play the piano or pick up the violin for years, but just didn't know where to begin? Well here's how to start fulfilling your musical dreams.
How to choose an instrument
Few people choose an instrument; it chooses them. Which instrument stops you in your tracks when you hear it? Which incredible piece of music do you dream of playing to your friends one day? Playing an instrument that inspires you will help you stay motivated on the long journey to musical mastery.
Don't worry about the noise. Take up the trumpet if you want to. Most people are more tolerant of attempts at self-improvement than you might expect. But keep your practise to daylight hours for maximum neighbourhood harmony.
Not everyone has the room or budget for a grand piano, but don't worry about the expense of your coveted instrument just yet. There are beginner models and hiring options for most instruments and a good instrument of any kind will likely be expensive, so follow your heart.
There's no rush to buy an instrument straight away. A teacher will be able to advise on the best instrument for your needs and may even know someone with a second-hand instrument they're trying to sell.
How to find a teacher
Six reasons to start learning a musical instrument as an adultFind a teacher through your local Music Teacher's Association. Many teachers also run Facebook pages to communicate with their students. One teacher's approach might not be right for everyone, so don't be afraid to meet a few before you settle in for regular lessons.
With the implementation of social distancing rules, many teachers have started teaching online through video conferencing. Ask whether they offer lessons remotely if you're keen to start straight away.
What if you are too shy to approach a teacher?
Engaging a teacher is the best way to stay on track and learn the best technique. Good technique will ensure you make the best sound, stay healthy as you play for longer, and move efficiently when you start playing faster.
That said, if you already have an instrument already and are just itching to try it out, there are many free beginner lessons available on YouTube. ABC Classic presenter Vanessa Hughes recently learned to play Bach in six weeks using James Rhodes's book How to Play the Piano. Once you have familiarised yourself with your instrument and some basic notation, you should feel more comfortable approaching a teacher for further guidance.
Take an online music theory course
Learning music theory will help you read music easier and understand what you are playing. The Australian Music Examinations Board provides online music theory courses and there are also plenty of other resources on YouTube and other websites to help you understand the rudiments of music.
Practise, practise, practise
Adults, just like children, need to practise their instruments regularly to improve. Without the imposed routines of childhood, many adults find it difficult to pick up their instrument every day. Make a "music corner" in your house and keep your instrument there so it is easy to access. Focus on playing for just a few minutes every day at first, then gradually increase your practise time as the routine sinks in.
Enjoy the process
Learning an instrument is a life-long process, so don't be disheartened if you don't improve as fast as you would like. Enjoy the process of learning this incredible new skill. Learning an instrument is one of the ways to exercise your brain and body, as well as providing nourishment to the soul no matter how good you are.
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article originally mentioned AMEB’s online theory courses, which were being offered for free during a limited time during COVID-19. The article has been amended to talk about more general theory course offerings, now that the AMEB are no longer offering these courses for free.