When acquaintances discover that I teach piano, almost all communicate a desire to learn my instrument.  How easy is it really to learn?  Do those do-it-yourself programs really work, and can they produce results as quickly as they claim to?

  If you are interested in learning to play piano, there are several questions you need to ask yourself.  First, what style of playing interests you?  Classical? Church music?  Easy listening, pop, or jazz?  Some styles, particularly classical, require a greater expenditure of time and energy as well as a qualified personal instructor.  Some which simply introduce keys and chord harmony (for instance, accompaniments for easy-listening songs or perhaps praise music) could be self-taught if you are a motivated and perceptive learner.

  Another question to ask yourself is, how much time are you willing to devote to the development of your skill?  Instruments are not objects to be picked up once or twice a week for 30 minutes, that is, if you have any hopes of improvement.

  Lastly, consider whether you would benefit from personal interaction.  Many teachers now include group lessons as part of their teaching schedules, and performing in front of others or listening to others' performances can drastically improve your perceptions of musicality, as well as inspire you on to greater things.  Plus, having a teacher readily available to answer questions whenever you get stuck is always a bonus.

  Of course, being a teacher myself, I would highly encourage any aspiring pianist to find a qualified instructor in your area and take weekly lessons, committing yourself to at least a half hour of personal practice time each day.  But feel free to try self-paced, do-it-yourself programs if you are motivated in that way.  Just remember, if it sounds too good to be true.....