beginner

Break Free from Sheet Music: Learn to Play the Piano Freely

Break Free from Sheet Music: Learn to Play the Piano Freely

Here at Piano Picnic, we believe in teaching adults to play the piano freely, without the constraints of traditional sheet music.

With our step-by-step curriculum of 2-minute lessons, even total beginners can quickly unlock their musical potential and embark on an exciting journey of self-discovery. Join us as we explore the vibrant world of Piano Picnic and learn to play it like you mean it!

Am I too old to start playing piano? [Student story]

Am I too old to start playing piano? [Student story]

With so many pianists starting their journey in childhood, it can feel like as adult beginners that we’ve missed the boat already. Is learning something new best left to the young? I talk to one of my students, Mike Clarke–a retired engineer in Australia–about his experience.

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How to learn piano (and love every minute of it!)

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How to learn piano (and love every minute of it!)

Learning something new isn’t easy and even with an enthusiastic and encouraging teacher like myself, you still need to foster a decent amount of inner-motivation in order to put in the effort required to achieve your piano goals.

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15 reasons why every musician should write songs (even beginners!)

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15 reasons why every musician should write songs (even beginners!)

Let’s address some of the most common excuses for why pianists (& musicians in general) think they can’t, shouldn’t or won’t write their own original songs (and why they definitely should!)

What's the difference between 'weighted keys' and 'graded hammer action'?

What's the difference between 'weighted keys' and 'graded hammer action'?

If you're in the market for a digital piano, these terms will definitely come up - what's the difference between weighted keys, semi-weighted keys, hammer action & graded hammer action? And which one is more desirable?

5 reasons why every vocalist NEEDS to learn piano.

5 reasons why every vocalist NEEDS to learn piano.

Playing one thing and singing another, whether melodically or rhythmically different was such a challenge while I was learning piano! My only approach was to learn the piano piece so well that I didn’t have to spare it a thought, allowing me to focus all my attention on trying to sing properly. But there are other ways to improve at accompanying yourself singing…

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Exercises For Strong Hands And Fingers

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Exercises For Strong Hands And Fingers

As you progress in your piano playing you will notice your fingers and wrists can become strained after a long practice. Prevention is better than a cure which is why you need to start doing finger and wrist exercises.