Monday, August 26, 2013

The Growth In Popularity For Piano Instruction

By Helga Stokes


Most people at one time or another have been guilty of uttering the phrase, "I wish that I could play a musical instrument". Some people have actually done something about their wishes, and have learnt how to play an instrument. The way in which they have gone about this has varied, some have used programmes on the internet, and some have taken lessons, such as those who have taken piano instruction.

This practice was more prevalent a few decades ago, and countless children went for weekly lessons. If anyone wishes to learn an instrument there are a lot more choices in how to do so. It has to be said that the best way is still to use a teacher, at least you will be assured that you will not be getting into bad habits right from the start.

As people began to have more leisure time there was a tendency for children to start avoiding lessons. Thankfully during the eighties there was an upsurge in those wanting to learn. This was largely due to the style of music people were listening to. This was the era of electronica, which had an emphasis on keyboards and synthesizers.

Children wanted to imitate their idols, in just the same way as their parents did with their idols. So throughout history people have always been learning how to play. You only have to think back to those old style black and white movies which always seemed to get aired during wet weekends.

Just think about all of those old fashioned Christmas films, you have probably noticed the family gathering around the piano as snow falls outside. A pianist plays carols and other festive songs while the family sing. Even films which included times of hardship often depicted groups of people gathered round a pianist as they played popular songs. The same is true today, many are happy if they can play a recognisable tune.

Delving back into history the majority of English pubs would have had a piano in one of the bars for the use of customers. If a person could play they were often in for a cheap night, as their drinks were bought while they played. Unfortunately this is now a much rarer sight unless the band booked to play has a keyboard player.

It is still possible to see pianos being played on a regular basis in certain institutions. If you ever have the opportunity to see inside the communal area of a residential home for the elderly you will often see one there. Despite being of advanced years the residents quite often relish a good old-fashioned sing song, perhaps as a reminder of their formative years.

The elderly pianist is often very lucky as they still retain the suppleness in their hands and fingers. Many of their co-residents will be suffering with arthritis in their hands and fingers. Maybe the pianist has managed to avoid this ailment by constantly using their hands.

No one suggests that anyone who takes piano instruction will be spared rheumatism or arthritis. What can be pointed out is the fun and enjoyment that a person can expect as they become more proficient. Many are not destined to join a band or feature in a concert, but the prospect of entertaining friends and family cannot be bad.




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