Tips for Beginners Before Starting Keyboard Lessons

Keyboards are the most popular musical instruments in the western tradition. Though the piano is the most popular and well-known of all keyboard instruments, there are a large number of them such as the accordion, harmonium, synthesiser, etc. They all have the same pattern of keys and learning one instrument should be helpful in learning the others. Before taking formal keyboard classes from a teacher, you should dabble a little first. Here are a few things you could do to start off your musical career.

Decide the type of keyboard

There are different types of keyboards. While each keyboard instrument has similarities to one another, they are each also uniquely different in several aspects. So randomly learning a keyboard, while beneficial overall, is not advisable if you are considering a career in a specific instrument. The first step is to choose the type of keyboard you want to learn. There are many choices, the most popular and classic being the piano. Even in the piano, there are different types of pianos, so you have your work of choosing cut out for you!

Buy a keyboard

A keyboard instrument in the home is essential for learning. While you can learn a lot from a good teacher, it is only with practice that you can improve your playing. Besides, with an instrument at hand before you start formal keyboard tutorials, it will be easier for you to explore it and get the feel of it. If you are going for a piano or an instrument that requires space, make sure you have the space for it at home, or choose another instrument that you can install at home. It is better to begin well and have all bases covered than to later have problems cropping up one by one.

Learn the basics

The first step to learning a keyboard instrument is to learn the basics about the instrument itself. Learn about the key patterns and understand what the black and white keys do. Every note on a keyboard instrument is represented within a 12-note octave. You will have to master this before moving on. The next step is to learn what the notes look like and what the symbols represent in terms of actual sounds. Learn about the parts of the keyboard and how it functions, how to press the pedal (for pianos), and how to develop your touch for best effect.

Basic musical background

When it comes to music, it is always good to have some knowledge in more than one instrument. It also pays off to have some basic voice training. If you already know something about music and have developed an ear for sound, you will find it easier to learn a keyboard instrument. For this end, make sure that you begin to dabble in music by handling instruments, attending concerts and listening to different types of music.

Find a good teacher

Having a good teacher to teach you would increase the pace of your learning and teach you the intricate techniques of playing. Receiving constant feedback will help you improve faster and deal with mistakes before they become an annoying habit. Moreover, a good teacher can also help in motivating you to practise and enjoy your music by making it fun for you.

Considering that different types of keyboard instruments are an essential component of both classical and modern music, it is a good idea to learn one of these instruments. Do some research, discover what suits you best, find a good teacher and then go ahead and take keyboard lessons.