April 18, 2023

About the Author: Laura Bevan

Laura Bevan is a 23 year old piano teacher at the London Piano Institute. She has been playing the piano since she was 7 years old and since then has studied at the conservatoire in Leeds gaining a degree in both Classical and Popular music.

So, you’re thinking about taking up piano lessons as an adult and the big question on your mind is, “Am I too old for this?” Well, let me tell you my friend, age is just a number! And honestly, what’s the worst that could happen? You might not become the next Beethoven, but at least you’ll have a new hobby to impress your friends and family with.

Now, let’s talk about some of the benefits of learning to play the piano as an adult. First off, you’ve probably already developed your music taste and have a better understanding of what you like. That means you can focus on learning the songs you actually enjoy, instead of playing “Mary Had a Little Lamb” on repeat like you did as a kid. Plus, it’s always fun to learn a new party trick and bust out a song or two when everyone’s gathered around the piano.

old lady playing the piano

Another perk of starting piano lessons as an adult is that you’re probably more disciplined than you were as a kid. You won’t be as easily distracted by that shiny object in the corner of the room or the sudden urge to run around the house for no reason. You’ll be able to focus on your lessons and practice without being reminded by your parents to stop playing video games and do your homework.

And let’s not forget about the social aspect of playing the piano. Sure, it’s a solo instrument, but that doesn’t mean you have to play alone. Joining a local piano club or attending group lessons can be a great way to meet new people and connect with other adults who share your passion for music. Who knows, you might even find a new piano duet partner!

middle aged man and woman playing the piano

But let’s be real, taking piano lessons isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. You might not progress as quickly as a child who’s been playing for years, but hey, slow and steady wins the race, right? Learning to play an instrument is a journey, and it’s all about enjoying the process. Sure, you’ll hit some frustrating roadblocks along the way, but the feeling of finally nailing that tricky chord progression or playing a song all the way through without a mistake is truly rewarding. And if all else fails, you can always throw in some fancy finger work and pretend like you meant to play that way.

Of course, to add onto this there is also the dreaded practice sessions. But here’s the thing, practice doesn’t have to be boring! You can mix it up by incorporating fun exercises, playing along to your favourite songs, or even challenging yourself to learn a new technique. And if all else fails, you can always bribe yourself with a piece of chocolate for every 15 minutes of practice.

old woman playing the piano outdoor

When it comes to finding the right teacher, there are plenty of options available. You can take lessons in person, or hop on the latest trend and take lessons online. Plus, there are teachers out there who specialise in teaching adults, so you won’t feel like the only one in the room who can legally buy a drink.

Finally, let’s talk about the true joy of playing the piano – the mental benefits. Playing the piano is a great way to relieve stress and clear your mind. So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, just sit down at the piano and let your fingers do the talking. Not only is it a great way to unwind after a long day, but it can also improve cognitive function. So go ahead, treat yourself to a little piano therapy session. You deserve it! Plus, you can finally fulfil your dream of playing Chopsticks while wearing a powdered wig and pretending to be a classical pianist.

woman playing the piano

So there you have it. Whether you’re looking to become the next Chopin or just want to have a new hobby, it’s never too late to start playing the piano. Don’t let age hold you back from pursuing your passions and having fun. Just remember to have a good sense of humour and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself when you hit a wrong note. With a little bit of dedication and a willingness to learn, you can become a skilled pianist and enjoy all the benefits that come with it. So go ahead, dust off that old keyboard in the corner of your living room and start playing!

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Join London’s most distinguished piano academy for adults

Exclusive music instruction for adults of all ages and abilities (absolute beginners are very welcome!)