The piano is one of the most loved instruments in the world. Get inspired and inspire others to become pianists with these beautiful piano quotes.

Everything from the piano’s sleek design to the beautiful sounds it emits is the result of individuals investing time, focus, and energy into the instrument. When you devote yourself to something, particularly playing an instrument, you develop a relationship with it. Eventually, it becomes a means of expression, in some cases, one that is more articulate than language. 

There are many pianists capable of leaving listeners in awe. Their fingers effortlessly glide across the majestic keyboard, producing sounds that take us to places we may not have thought possible. Truly, sound, music, and piano are marvelous. 

Many of those adept at playing the instrument have left our listeners and practitioners with words that give us a taste of what playing the piano can mean.

But why exactly does the piano affect people so profoundly?

The article provides insight into why the piano impacts people and presents 20 lovely quotes from pianists, musicians, and authors that describe the piano from their perspectives. 

Sound.

It all begins with sound, or rather, vibration. 

Science finally backs up the claim that everything in existence moves and vibrates. Regardless of what science says about vibration, we are no strangers to sound. Everything from rustling leaves to the words we speak creates vibrations. 

The point is that vibrations play a central role in our lives, affecting our mental and emotional states. 

Humans are pretty good at making sounds. Many people devote their lives to making sounds by making music.

Music.

Music is the expressive art of arranging sounds in a combination of form, harmony, melody, and rhythm.

It hugely impacts us, and we can’t get enough of it. It speaks to us in ways we still don’t fully understand–affecting our brain in measurable ways. 

If you’re curious about how playing the piano affects the brain, check out our blog Why Playing Piano Is a Brain Booster. 

Music makes us feel happy, sad, angry, and all sorts of other ways that we can’t necessarily describe with language. Music brings us closer together through collaboration and dance. 

And through these musical experiences, whether it’s be creating or listening to a mind-blowing sequence of notes, or profound lyrics, music can bring us closer to the essence of life.

Piano.

We create music in many different ways. There are countless musical instruments that we use to make diverse sounds. Surely one of the most beloved is the piano. 

With 88 keys, 230 strings of varying widths, and a massive soundboard, the piano is a unique instrument that touches the hearts of countless musicians and listeners. 

Piano quotes on expression.

The piano is far more than a musical instrument. To many, it’s a tool that offers the means to express themselves beyond words. 

1. “The piano as a medium for expression is a whole world by itself. No other instrument can fill or replace its own say in the world of emotion, sentiment, poetry, imagery, and fancy.” — Leopold Godowsky, Polish-American Pianist

2. “To me, the piano in itself is an orchestra.” — Cecil Taylor, American Pianist, and Poe

3. “One of my biggest thrills for me still is sitting down with a guitar or a piano and just out of nowhere trying to make a song happen.” — Sir Paul McCartney, English Singer-Songwriter

4. “I’m able to sometimes express things even more articulately on the piano than I am with singing.” — Harry Connick Jr., American Musician

5. “I tell my piano the things I used to tell you.” – Frederic Chopin
6.  “Sometimes I can only groan, and suffer, and pour out my despair at the piano.” – Frederic Chopin

7. “The important thing is to feel your music, really feel it and believe it.” – Ray Charles

8. “I had never before thought of how awful the relationship must be between the musician and his instrument. He has to fill it, this instrument, with the breath of life, his own.” — James Baldwin, American Author

Funny piano quotes.

Quotes don’t always have to be profound. Sometimes, someone’s description of the piano can be lighthearted, allow us to see the instrument uniquely, or point out human characteristics. 

1. “The piano is a monster that screams when you touch its teeth.” – Andre Segovia

2. “I wish the government would put a tax on pianos for the incompetent.” – Edith Sitwell

3. “The public is like a piano. You just have to know what keys to poke.” – Al Capp

4. “What has keys but can’t listen to the beauty it unlocks? A piano. – Jarod Kintz

5. “The piano is a monster that screams when you touch its teeth.” – Andre Segovia

6. “There’s nothing remarkable about it. All one has to do is hit the right keys at the right time and the instrument plays itself.” – Johann Sebastian Bach

Philosophical piano quotes.

Vibration permeates existence. And the manipulation of sound can be an intense and profound experience. The following quotes express the sense of wonder we can plunge into thanks to the piano. 

1. “The piano is able to communicate the subtlest universal truths by means of wood, metal and vibrating air.” — Kenneth Miller, American Biologist

2. “Life is like a piano. What you get out of it depends on how you play it.” –Tom Lehrer

3. “The piano keys are black and white but they sound like a million colors in your mind.” — Maria Cristina Mena, Author

4. “Prayer is when you talk to God. Meditation is when you’re listening. Playing the piano allows you to do both at the same time.” — Kelsey Grammer, American Actor

5. “There are eighty-eight keys on a piano and within that, an entire universe.” ― James Rhodes

6. “The piano as a medium for expression is a whole world by itself. No other instrument can fill or replace its own say in the world of emotion, sentiment, poetry, imagery and fancy” – Leopold Godowsky

Music is a wondrous phenomenon. Musicians and listeners gather regularly to celebrate and take a melodic journey inward. Just as the sounds emanating from the piano can be emotionally captivating, so can the quotes and sayings that describe this instrument. 

While listening to the piano can be a beautiful experience, playing it can be much more fulfilling. Even the adventure of learning the instrument can be fun and rewarding. 

Are you learning how to play the piano?

Simply Piano is a fantastic app that provides students everything they need to learn how to play, from reading sheet music to playing your favorite songs. Give it a try today!

The post 20 Lovely Piano Quotes To Share With Your Friends appeared first on Learn to Play an Instrument with step-by-step lessons | Simply Blog.

If you’re looking for the best keyboard piano for beginners, look no further! Simply Piano has the perfect instrument for you.

When choosing your keyboard, it’s essential to strike the right balance between cost and a beginner-friendly instrument that motivates you and provides room to grow.

There are all sorts of keyboards. Some prioritize portability, sound quality, and even aesthetics.

A lot goes into a keyboard. Each design offers unique qualities and capabilities that may be what sways your decision. 

So let’s dive into the world of keyboards and find the best keyboard piano for a beginner.

The number of keys for a beginner.

Generally speaking, most keyboards come with 49, 61, 73, or a full 88 keys, like a piano. There is no correct number of keys per se, but you may develop a preference as you continue practicing. Until then, you might not know the type of music you want to play or what qualities you will most appreciate from your keyboard. 

And there are qualities aplenty!

Keyboards come in various shapes, sizes, styles, with different numbers of keys and tools built in. You can learn a lot about playing the piano with just 49 keys. However, we recommend going with 88. You won’t be able to make the most out of all 88 keys when you begin. But that’s okay –  you will have plenty of room to grow. 

Weighted versus unweighted keys.

As a beginner, you will need to consider buying a keyboard with weighted versus unweighted keys. You have a third choice too – semi-weighted. Each of these keys offers unique qualities and changes how it feels to play.

Why weighted keys are better.

Weighted keys are better because they provide a similar feel to a classical acoustic piano. As such, keyboards with weighted keys have greater articulation and sound control than keyboards with unweighted keys.

For instance, applying more pressure on a key produces a vastly different sound than using a softer touch. These subtleties can drastically affect the energy and emotion in music.

This will help you understand and feel the sensitivity needed to push down the keys with different levels of control.

Number of sounds.

Part of what makes the keyboard so fun to play and an excellent instrument for beginners is its number of sounds. 

Keyboards can have from ten to 400 different sounds! This gives you the chance to explore a range of possible musical styles.

So if you’re feeling funky, you can adjust the settings and play funk music. Additionally, you can synchronize your sounds to mesh with other musicians because of the electronic nature of your keyboard. 

The best keyboard piano for beginners.

Whether you’re just starting out or nearing the level of masterhood, it’s essential to be inspired by your instrument. 

Playing on a keyboard that feels more like a toy than an instrument can negatively impact your experience. That’s why we recommend the following keyboard as the best keyboard for a beginner.

Introducing the Korg B2N. 

This keyboard has 88 semi-weighted keys on an NT (Natural Touch) keyboard. 

The NT keyboard reproduces the touch of an acoustic piano, with heavier action in the low register and a lighter feel in the upper register. 

Korg gives the right balance of beginner-friendly playability while allowing you to dip your toes into the intricate world of sensitive key strikes. 

As far as aesthetics go, the Korg B2N makes most beginner keyboards look and feel cheap. For a portable keyboard, it’s on the larger side and costs just over $500. 

The B2N comes with twelve different sound settings, from the electric organ to the harpsichord. These sounds create powerful and vibrant reverberations thanks to Korg’s latest piano engine. 

Another helpful feature is the USB port that you can plug into various music software and hardware. That means you can create and record music from your tablet or phone! 

Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with any pedals. However, you only need a sustain pedal for digital pianos and keyboards that you can find a separate pedal and plug into your keyboard.

There’s a lot to consider when purchasing an instrument. Knowing what you want from your keyboard, the kind of music you want to play, the price, and its portability should all factor into your decision. 

Regardless of what keyboard you choose, it’s ultimately a tool – a rather important one, to be sure – in the journey of learning and playing music. 

Many tools can help you get better. It’s just about knowing where to look and what to look for.

Add some spice and speed up the process of your keyboard journey with Simply Piano!

FAQs.

The post The best piano keyboards for beginners appeared first on Learn to Play an Instrument with step-by-step lessons | Simply Blog.

Trying to learn all the major and minor chords? This short article breaks down what you need to know to play the Bb minor chord.

Chords can be a whirlwind of numbers, letters, and sounds. It’s easy to get lost and confused, especially when just beginning on the piano. 

Luckily for you, music theory is full of easy tools to help you figure out and understand chords. We’ve collected all the essential information, including clear and easy tables, to help you play Bb/A# minor. 

Chords and inversions.

The definition of a chord is to play two or more notes simultaneously. When you play three notes at the same time, you’re playing a triad. 

A triad generally will be major or minor. You build a major chord using the major scale’s first, third, and fifth notes. It comprises two intervals, a major third and then a minor third.

Minor chords have the same two intervals in reverse – a minor third and then a major third. You build them from the major scale’s first, third, and fifth notes, but the third is flat (lower by a semitone).

An inversion is when you play these notes in a different order. Triads can appear in three positions:

Root position: 1, 3, 5.

First inversion: 3, 5, 1.

Second inversion: 5, 1, 3. 

Building a Bb minor chord. 

To make a Bb minor chord, we begin with the Bb major scale.

Then make a Bb major chord, using the first, third, and fifth degrees of the scale: 

To make it minor, flatten the third degree of the scale (which is the second note of the chord):

First inversion – Bb minor.

The first inversion is when you play the chord like this:

3, 5, 1.

Here is Bb minor in first inversion:

Second inversion – Bb minor.

The second inversion is when you play the chord in the following order:

5, 1, 3.

This is Bbm in second inversion:

Bb’s long lost sister: A# 

Did you know Bb is also called A#? It’s all about the context. This system comes from a rule that you cannot have the same letter appear twice in a scale or chord. 

In the case of A#, this causes a confusing lettering situation. The letters C, F, and G all have a ‘double sharp’ symbol (which looks like x). This is because all of these notes are already sharp on an A major scale. So when A becomes A#, they all raise up by another semitone. 

All of the above Bb tables are here below, with the new lettering of A#. Remember that they still sound exactly the same as each other. 

A# major scale:

G# major chord:

G# minor chord:

G# minor first inversion:

G# minor second inversion:

You can find a fast and effective rundown on our blog to Quickly Learn Piano Notes and Chords.

Popular songs with Bb/A# minor.

Do you want to figure out some popular songs that use the Ab/G# minor chord? Check out these:

• Burn – Ellie Goulding
• Midnight in Manhattan – Peter White
• Sleeping with Ghosts – Placebo
• I See Fire – Ed Sheeran

Here we go!

There is no time like the present for learning chords. They give you a major step-up in your musical journey and get you through every minor challenge! Start to play Bb/A# minor, and make sure you download the Simply Piano app–it’s an interactive, fun, and easy guide to learning chords. 

The post Playing the Bb Minor Chord on Piano appeared first on Learn to Play an Instrument with step-by-step lessons | Simply Blog.

So, you’ve started learning how to play the piano? Looking for a way to bring a little excitement to your piano lessons? At JoyTunes, we figured that including some piano games for beginners into your routine is a nice way to spice things up!

Learning to play an instrument is a journey. One that comes with its fair share of challenges – especially at the beginning. A part of overcoming obstacles is taking a different approach to the problem! 

And what better way to shake things up than by playing a game? 

By mixing a little fun into your lessons, you can make your musical journey more alive and enjoyable. 

Not to mention all the dexterity your mind and fingers will gain! 

Besides, changing up the routine is nice every so often.  

So without further ado, let the games begin!

The best games for piano beginners.

Countless creative games can help you improve your piano skills in a fun way. So we cut that list down to the best three piano games for beginners. Each game offers a unique approach to practicing your piano skills.

1. Finger Twister

Sometimes stepping away from the piano can be helpful. Too much of anything can become overwhelming or redundant. 

As an athlete, if you only practice a single exercise, you may find that the path you’ve taken to improve yourself narrows or constricts, limiting your ability to learn and grow.

The first game we thought of for beginner piano students is Finger Twister! It’s like the kid’s game (or adult, if the only things twisted are the ice teas). There’s just one difference – this version is only for your fingers (ice tea optional). 

While this may seem like an odd approach, the idea has merit.

Rules & pieces.

For this game, you’ll need a spinner and a color-coded board. 

If you’re a DIY person, you can be creative and make your own. On the other hand, if you’re more goal-oriented or itching to get straight to it, the only thing standing between you and an existing template is a quick Google search. 

The standard board has five colors that line up with one color per column. The dots should form a square with 25 colored dots. 

As for the spinner should be at the center of the circle with an arrow pointing towards the perimeter of the circle and the various colors. 

You can make the game more complex by adding a ‘left hand’ and ‘right hand’ section of the spinner, increasing the number of dots on the board, or including numbers in the spinner and board.

It’s essential to consider the size of the board. Ideally, it will share a similar measurement to that of the keys of a piano.

All you need to do is spin the spinner and place your fingers in the right spot to play the game! 

Why you should play.

As someone just starting their musical journey, you might find that your fingers can’t quite make specific movements or positions, and reaching for some keys feels a little unnatural. 

Finger Twister is one of the best piano games for beginners because it can improve the agility and strength of your fingers. 

Like any athlete, you need to spend some time in the gym to maximize your potential. While it’s essential to play the sport (or piano) and practice specific drills (or musical sequences), a little training can go a long way. 

Including exercises that keep your body in the best possible condition will help you perform the specific movements for your given hobby.

Stepping away from your piano and taking the time to explore your movements and improve your mobility can drastically affect your ability to reach all the keys. 

2. Musical Alphabet Game

While having mobile, fast fingers helps you hit the notes more proficiently, you need to sharpen your mind too.  

Playing the piano is a significant part of your ability to read sheet music. The best piano players can simultaneously read music sheets and play at the same time. 

But you need to master the alphabet before writing words, or in this case, learn the notes before playing music.

Improving your piano skills with music theory games for beginners like Musical Alphabet can help familiarize you with your piano’s various notes and keys.

Rules & pieces.

For this game, you’ll need a couple of items:

• 2x dice
• A timer
• A piece of paper
• Several sheets of music

To play the game, you need to mark down the letters or notes of the piano – A, B, C, D, E, F, G – on a piece of paper. 

Next, you’ll want to assign each note to a number. 

Roll the dice and see which letter you get! The goal of this music game for beginners is to identify every time that particular note appears on the sheet music.

As you get better, you can increase the intensity of the game. 

For example, you can add a time constraint. Now, not only do you have to identify the note on the sheet, but you also have to do it within a specific time frame. You can also increase the number of pages you have to cover or add a letter to locate!

The faster you can read, the more you can focus on moving your fingers!

Why you should play.

When you’re just starting, reading music can be a little confusing if you’re unfamiliar with the symbols on the page. However, learning to read music sheets can make learning the piano and playing songs you love that much more accessible. 

Ideally, you will develop an intuitive touch with your instrument. Meaning your hands will feel where they are on the keyboard. This way, your eyes can focus on which note comes next. 

This game can drastically improve your ability to read sheet music. 

By sharpening your ability to spot and identify the notes on the sheet, you can focus on moving your fingers to the correct key. Gradually your ability to read and play music will become more fluid. 

3. Smarties

Smarties harnesses the timeless teaching method of rewarding good behavior. As we said earlier, learning the piano is a journey. And that path can be filled with heartache and frustration or a challenging and fulfilling experience.

It’s easy to get lost in our thoughts, and if you’re not careful, the same hobby you pursue can become a source of stress. So, it’s vital to ensure that your relationship with the piano remains positive. Besides, learning is smoother and more enjoyable when you feel the inspiration!

So knock those barriers down with some positive reinforcement!

Rules & materials.

This game is ideal because it only requires one thing. 

Smarties! 

Although, if you’re not into smarties, you can switch the reward to something more delicious for you. 

Place a set number of smarties on one side of the piano to play the game. To determine the correct number of treats to use, set a goal of how many successful repetitions you want to perform. Move one smarty to the other when you complete the sequence you’re working on. 

Each smarty or treat that makes it to the other side is yours to keep!

Why you should play.

No matter what you’re working on, practicing, or learning, there will always be hurdles to overcome. Sometimes the things we struggle with can feel like a wall blocking our path. 

That can be discouraging. 

However, moving past obstacles just takes patience and consistency. 

Implementing a reward system provides you with an additional incentive to push forward even when you feel stuck. This can alter your perception of the barrier that you’re facing. 

Instead of seeing a sequence as difficult or unpleasant, you can see it as a challenge – the perfect lesson to help you improve. 

Piano games for beginners – a tool for learning.

Playing the piano is a great way to develop a skill you’ll carry throughout your life. No matter what level you’re at, learning is part of the journey. 

So, it’s essential to enjoy the process. 

These games can help you improve creatively, sharpen and strengthen your mind, increase your digital agility, and ultimately make your piano journey more enjoyable and fulfilling.

For more unique and fun ways to learn the piano, check out the Simply Piano app!

FAQs.

The post 3 Ridiculously Fun Games for Piano Beginners appeared first on Learn to Play an Instrument with step-by-step lessons | Simply Blog.

You can learn how to play the guitar, but how long does it take to learn it? How many hours do you need to practice? Find out the answers here.

When picking up a new instrument, start with goals. Where do you want to be in three months, six months, or a year? What milestones should you achieve? On average, how long it takes to learn guitar?

Every musician’s journey differs, but anyone can learn to play the guitar. Some pick it up at lightning speed, while others need more time. However, you can reach your end goal by setting your pace and sticking to it. Slow and steady wins the race, right? 

We’ve broken down the guitarist’s first year into small soundbites. These realistic mile markers can help you set goals and start you off on the path to becoming an expert guitarist.

Become a guitarist: Year one.

Want to learn to play the guitar? The first year is a learning curve for beginners. Once you have all the basics, you can start fine-tuning your skills.

Your first month

Starting, you probably won’t sit down and play a guitar solo like Slash. Some of the simple steps may seem tedious at first. However, the foundation you lay at the beginning of your journey is crucial to your future success. 

In the first month, you want to focus less on speed and more on accuracy. Here are a few goals to achieve in the first month:

• The proper guitar posture and finger positions.
• Deciphering guitar chord charts
• Playing open-string chords
• Tuning the guitar strings
• Guitar Anatomy

Months 1-3

You can practice some of the most common open chords in the first three months of learning guitar. Playing the full version of a chord can be complicated for beginners. So, instead, start by practicing chords such as Am7, Cmaj7, Dsus2, and G6.

These simple chords sound great but only require you to play two frets. As you build confidence on the guitar, you can flesh out these chords with more notes. 

Learn the correct finger positions for chords. The long-term goal is to play by feeling instead of watching your fingers. Practice moving smoothly from one chord to the next. You can even say the chord names out loud to remember their positions. Once you feel comfortable with two chords, add one more. 

Also, you want to work on rhythm and strum patterns in your first three months of playing guitar. You can tap one foot on the floor to help you keep rhythm or use a metronome for accuracy. The strum patterns can vary depending on the song and the genre of music. If you are practicing a well-known song, look up the song on YouTube to see which strum patterns other guitarists use.

Months 3-6

The guitar posture and finger positions should begin to feel natural in three to six months. You probably have some finger callouses and know a few chord patterns. Also, your ear should let you know when your guitar starts sounding out of tune. 

If you are not committed to playing the guitar, this three-month period is when you may be ready to throw in the towel. Some of the “honeymoon phase” of learning a new instrument is over, and you have to buckle down to work. 

However, if you stick to your practice sessions, this period is where you can start to make real progress. You want to continue to add to your chord repertoire. Also, you can flesh out some of the simple chords you have been practicing and achieve a fuller sound.

Practice new songs that stretch your skills. 

Months 6-12

Once you play the guitar for six months, you build confidence in your skills. You should know many common chords and be able to pick out new pieces fairly quickly.

At this point, you are ready to dig deeper into guitar theory. Before you begin practicing a new piece, try playing guitar scales first. This makes your fingers nimble and increases your accuracy on the frets. You can also work on improvisation and guitar solos. Play the guitar with other musicians to learn new techniques and put your skills to the test. 

How long does it take to become…

Common myths about learning guitar.

For every person who encourages you in your musical journey, there is someone out there ready to chime in with discouraging advice. We’re here to dispel the common myths about learning guitar and encourage you to follow your dreams.

Here are a few common myths you may hear:

It’s too late to learn the guitar.

Never say never! You always have room to grow and learn new skills. 

While many think that learning guitar as an adult is more difficult many find the opposite true.  With time management skills and motivation to learn, adults can often learn a new instrument faster than young students. If you want to play the guitar, no time is better than the present!

Know how to play by ear, or don’t play at all.

Many famous musicians were self-taught and picked up the guitar by ear. These instant success stories can intimidate those of us without the same incredible talent.

Some musicians imply that if you can’t pick up a guitar by ear, you shouldn’t pick it up at all. But that’s like saying that you can’t learn math if you aren’t Einstein. 

You may have to put more hours of work in than someone with a gifted ear. However, even musicians with inherent talent need to learn music theory. Once you learn the correct positions, fingering, and basic music theory, you may even find that you are ahead of those who rely only on their natural skills to play guitar.  

If you have small hands, you can’t play the guitar.

Having large hands can be an asset when it comes time to learn a new instrument. You have an easier time on the fretboard reaching the right chords. But you can’t help it if the gene pool didn’t gift you with large hands. 

If you have small hands, your fingers must work harder to reach the right chords. The large fretboard on classical guitars makes stretches even more difficult for those with small hands. 

So, can you still play the guitar? You can look at kid-size guitars and warm up with finger exercises and stretches before you play. 

Also, check out Pepe Romaro’s guitar skills. This master guitarist is just a little over five feet tall and has smaller-than-average hands. Yet, he is a pro at the classical guitar and proof that anyone can play the guitar. Size doesn’t matter.

You don’t have time to practice guitar.

It is true that the more time you have to practice, the faster you can advance from a beginner to an expert guitar player. However, not everyone has hours a day to devote to learning a new instrument. 

Playing the guitar is still possible even if you have little free time. Carve out short practice sessions and dedicate all your attention to the amount of time you do have. It may be 10, 20, or 30 minutes, but that’s okay. Mastering one chord or one concept in 10-minute sessions a day can have an exponential effect. Instead of waiting for the “perfect” moment, start with what you have. 

Tips to speed up your learning process.

It is better to take it slow than to skip over critical theory techniques. However, if you want to fast-track your learning, there are a few ways to speed up the process.

1. Choose a practice space without distractions

Choose a quiet area to practice that is free from distractions. The perfect spot could be your bedroom, a university practice room, or any other quiet space you can concentrate. Turn the T.V. off and put your phone on silent mode so you can give the guitar all your attention.

2. Have the right tools 

It is easier to learn a new instrument when you have the right tools on hand. Find a chair that is the right height and use a footstool. If you don’t have a footrest, you can use a stack of books. Make sure you have a pic if you are playing acoustic or electric. For classical, you want to pay attention to how you clip your nails. Find a book, program, online app, or teacher and start playing guitar.

3. Devote regular time to practice

Carve out a regular practice time. As a beginning guitarist, start with short practice sessions. Then after the callouses build on your fingers, you can increase the time you spend practicing. The more you practice, the more you can learn. 

You can learn guitar in record time with a quiet place to learn, the right tools at your disposal, and regular practice.

Little by little.

It’s a great idea to set goals as you learn the guitar and estimate how quickly you can advance. Just keep in mind that every person learns at their own pace. 

Whether you are in your first year of guitar or have put in 19,999 hours of practice, your hard work pays off. So, give yourself grace, learn from your mistakes, and let your passion for guitar playing shine through. 

To organize your time and create more efficient practice sessions, download the app Simply Guitar. This app can guide you through the fundamentals of guitar and helps you advance to the next level.

The post How Long Does It Take to Learn Guitar?  appeared first on Learn to Play an Instrument with step-by-step lessons | Simply Blog.

Do you know what dynamics on the piano are? What’s their importance? Learn what dynamics are and how to play them on the piano.

The piano is an elaborate and sophisticated instrument. With 88 weighted keys, pianists enjoy a wide range of tones to play with, allowing them to create powerful and gentle sounds. 

However, the 88 keys are merely the tip of the iceberg regarding the opulence of piano vibrations. Piano dynamics greatly expand a musician’s expressive power, adding many layers of texture to the music they play. 

This article provides everything you need to know about dynamics and how to recognize them in sheet music and play them. 

So, let’s dive into this lesson and see what dynamics can do for you.

What are dynamics in piano?

Dynamics are the changes in volume that a composer writes into their music. For a pianist, it refers to how softly or loudly to play a note. In sheet music, these changes are usually marked with symbols below the notes. 

Composers and musicians incorporate dynamics into their pieces to make their music more lively or dramatic. With dynamics, musicians emphasize the highs and lows of a song. 

Thanks to weighted keys, piano players can apply varying degrees of force onto a single key, affecting the sound’s intensity and volume. With a soft touch, you create a soft and quiet sound. Conversely, the instrument makes a piercing and loud sound with a powerful touch.

Types of Dynamics.

A single key or note offers a spectrum of sound. Playing them lies in the pressure you apply. 

Think of piano dynamics as a scale. It begins with pianissimo (very soft), to piano (soft), to mezzo-piano (medium soft), then mezzo-forte (medium loud), to forte (loud), and at the end of the range is the fortissimo (very loud).

What are dynamic markings?

The dynamic markings in piano you see on sheet music are:

• ‘pp’ for pianissimo 
• ‘p’ refers to the piano
• ‘mp’ for mezzo-piano
• ‘mf’ means you play the note as mezzo-forte
• ‘f’ for forte
• ‘ff’ represents fortissimo
• ‘fff’ is fortississimo 

A trick to help you identify whether to play softly or loudly is recognizing the letters ‘p’ (playing softly) or ‘f’ (playing loudly). 

Additionally, the symbol ‘sf’ (Sforzandos) indicates a change in intensity for a single note. In other words, if you’re playing softly and you come across an ‘sf,’ you play the following note loudly–the same is true for the opposite scenario. 

Another aspect of dynamics is how you escalate or descend into the sound. We mark a crescendo as ‘<’ and a decrescendo as ‘>’.

A crescendo means gradually increasing the sound, whereas a decrescendo refers to a gradual decrease in sound. You play a crescendo or decrescendo as far as the symbol indicates.

How to identify them on a piano sheet music?

A lot is going on in piano sheet music. Dynamics give you even more to keep track of while playing. There can be dynamic markings for both hands. 

Written below the stave and note they affect, a dynamic indicates the volume of the subsequent notes until you reach another marking.  

How to play dynamics on the piano.

Recognizing piano dynamics is one thing. Implementing dynamics requires another level of finger control and coordination. However, like all skills—with enough practice, focus, and patience—playing dynamics is well within reach. 

To play loud notes (f), you must apply more pressure on the keys and light pressure for soft notes (p). With Sforzandos (sf), you apply a fast and forceful touch when pressing the keys.

For crescendos, you begin by playing softly and gradually increase the pressure and loudness as you reach the peak. As for decrescendos, you begin with more strength and gradually incorporate a softer touch. 

Practicing dynamics

Recognizing dynamic markings is the first step. Getting good at playing them requires practice. 

If you’re still working on general piano skills, look at our blog post, 10 Best Piano Exercises for Beginners.

Like any skill, dynamics can be challenging to master. Already, playing the piano demands a lot of finger dexterity and control. Implementing a softer or harder while playing only makes things more complicated. The secret is in training your reflexes. 

Start by applying dynamics in scales. Try crescendoing and decrescendoing as you play the various notes in your scale. Once you’ve got the hang of that, you can make things more challenging by applying different dynamics for different keys. 

Another way to practice is to mark your dynamics on sheet music. By doing this, not only do you work on playing dynamics, but you also gain a better understanding of the effect they have on music. 

Speaking of practicing the piano, are you looking for a powerful tool to help you learn? Simply piano offers various bite-sized lessons that help you learn everything from reading sheet music to playing your favorite songs. 

FAQs.

The post What Are Piano Dynamics and How to Play Them appeared first on Learn to Play an Instrument with step-by-step lessons | Simply Blog.

Do you need a piano humidifier? Controlling the humidity levels of your piano is critical to keeping your instrument in good condition.

Acoustic pianos require specific conditions to maintain a perfect pitch. It’s common knowledge that heat and moisture are bad for a piano. However, even subtle changes in the piano’s environment can upset its balance. This is why it is of utmost importance to keep humidity under control. You may even need to invest in a piano humidifier. 

How does humidity affect pianos?

An acoustic piano has many intricate parts. Wood expands and contracts based on temperature and humidity levels. Even sturdy wooden boards can warp if exposed to inclement weather. So, just think about how significant changes in the atmosphere can affect your piano. 

Too much humidity or too little humidity can negatively affect a piano. Here are a few side effects you may notice when your piano bears the brunt of extreme environmental changes:

• Keys can stick or respond slowly to your touch.
• Wood can crack, split, or warp.
• Piano Tuning doesn’t last long.
• The felt can come loose from the hammers.
• You may notice a dull or muffled sound when you play.
• Keys can rattle or wiggle when you press them down.
• Structural damage can occur.

A piano should be able to bounce back from isolated incidents. For instance, if you go out of town for a few days and cut corners on your air conditioning bill. 

However, if your piano is left frequently in harsh temperatures, it can cause irreparable damage to the instrument. So, don’t allow the situation to get out of hand. 

Instead, take a few preventative measures to keep your piano in tip-top condition. But before you can control the humidity, you need to know the ideal humidity level for a piano.

What is the ideal humidity for a piano?

Hot, steamy temperatures are not a piano’s best friend. However, extremely dry conditions are not helpful, either. You risk causing damage to your piano. You want to strike a balance. 

So, where is that sweet spot when it comes to balancing the humidity and dryness in your home?

Most experts recommend keeping a piano under 50 percent and above 40 percent. If the number goes over 50 percent, mold and mildew can become a problem for your piano and other areas of your home. 

When the level falls below 40 percent humidity, the wooden parts on a piano can become dry and crack. Hot weather and heating systems, especially underfloor or forced air systems, can cause the relative humidity level to drop below 40 percent. 

Ideally, your piano room stays at 42-43 percent humidity year-round. 

How to check relative humidity.

Now that you know what humidity level allows your piano to thrive, you need to see how the humidity in your room measures up. For this, a hygrometer can be an invaluable tool.

A hygrometer measures how much water vapor is present in the atmosphere. You can find hygrometers that you can set up on a table, hang on the wall, and some even have magnet backings.

Many hygrometers are relatively inexpensive. You can expect a cheap hygrometer to hit accuracy within or minus seven degrees. High-quality hygrometers are accurate within 1 degree.

To test the accuracy of your hygrometer, wrap it in a damp towel for half an hour to 45 minutes. Then quickly check the hygrometer’s reading. The most accurate hygrometers should read 100%.

How can you control the humidity of your piano?

Central heat systems and lack of proper air-conditioning can damage your piano. To protect your piano from humidity, dryness, and extreme temperature changes, you can bring in the right equipment to help you out.

Dehumidifiers

If you live in areas near the coast or where there is an extended rainy season, your home may be prone to high humidity levels. Basements and kitchens can also retain dampness. This makes them less than ideal environments for pianos. 

A dehumidifier is a wise investment if your hygrometer gives you a high humidity reading. A piano dehumidifier system can prevent the wood in your instrument from swelling and preserve your instrument. 

The three types of dehumidifiers are:

• Refrigerant dehumidifiers use a fan to draw air in over metal plates while moisture drips into a water tank. This reduces the room’s relative humidity. After the room reaches an ideal humidity level, the dehumidifier goes on standby.
• Desiccant dehumidifiers absorb and eliminate moisture through a desiccant. These systems are generally more portable than refrigerant dehumidifiers and work better in cooler temperatures.
• Whole-house dehumidifiers run efficiently and are inexpensive to run. These systems are installed in a loft or attic and push fresh air into your home, forcing damp air out.  

These dehumidifiers work differently but have one goal–to remove damp air from your home.

Humidifiers

For those who live in a constant heat wave, you may not have to worry about humidity. However, the excessive dry heat can also cause problems for your piano.

The wood may contract until it cracks, and you may notice loose keys when you play. In this case, you may need to add more humidity to your room. When choosing a humidifier, you have a few options:

• Stand-alone humidifiers focus on one room of your home. These affordable systems allow you to control the climate of your home.
• HVAC humidifiers run through your home’s HVAC system. These humidifiers should run when your furnace is running. This can be an efficient way to add humidity to your home. 
• Dampp-Chaser Systems (or Piano Lifesaver Systems) are a permanent installation inside your piano. Many schools and churches use this system since it can be difficult to control the humidity in large rooms or assembly halls. However, installing these systems in a new piano may nullify your piano’s warranty.

Each system has its pros and cons and can fit different needs. So, find the best piano humidifier for you.

Let your piano live its best life

Keeping your home at an ideal temperature and humidity level for a piano may sound like work. However, an inexpensive hygrometer can determine if your home is in the ideal range. 

Controlling the environment of your piano room is like buying insurance. You may pay more upfront to invest in a humidifier or dehumidifier. However, you can enjoy a quality instrument with great sound for years.  

If you want a headstart on your piano journey, you can try out a free trial of the Simply Piano app. This app allows you to learn the basics of playing piano and is fun for kids and adults. 

FAQs.

The post Piano Humidifier: What is It and Why Do You Need One appeared first on Learn to Play an Instrument with step-by-step lessons | Simply Blog.

From tuning kits to lamps and benches, there are many piano accessories that every pianist needs. This article covers all of the essential piano accessories that change your piano game.

Not every piano is built the same, and some need modifications to play them more comfortably. Piano accessories can also get out of hand and crowd the piano – and that’s not what we want. 

So what’s a necessity when accessorizing pianos? And what just ends up as cumbersome decor? 

Let’s look at eight piano accessories that make maintaining and playing the piano an easier and more enjoyable experience.

1. Piano bench

Starting with the most crucial accessory, the piano bench is integral for any pianist. 

Pianos come in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, the proper posture doesn’t change from one piano to the next. 

Pianists need a piano bench, so sitting comfortably while they play is effortless. The bench should be the right height for the pianist so they can easily reach the keys with their feet on the ground. 

Many piano benches are adjustable. Some benches have a backrest, while others do not. and Some even have storage space underneath the seat.

Most piano benches are wood or metal and include a cushion for comfort. They can cost anywhere from $50 to $500.

To learn more about piano benches, scroll through our blog Choosing the Best Piano Bench.

2. Cleaning Kit

While cleaning the piano may seem straightforward, using the wrong products can be damaging or corrosive. A piano cleaning kit helps you clean your piano safely, preserving it rather than degrading it.

3. Piano tuning kit 

Tuning is essential to keep your piano sounding the way it should. Tuning kits usually include a tuning lever, hammer, mutes, and a tuning fork or electronic tuning device.

Tuners are available in various formats, including digital, costing anywhere from $50 to $500.

Many people hire a professional piano tuner. By adjusting the tension of the strings inside the piano, you manipulate the sounds they emit. 

Want to tune your piano yourself? Check out our blog Piano Tuning Essentials & DIY.

4. Sustain pedal

While most acoustic pianos come with pedals built into the frame, digital pianos may come without pedals. 

If you own a digital piano, a sustain pedal is a tool that expands your expressive potential. A sustain pedal allows pianists to extend notes. This can be useful for creating a more legato sound (notes tied together with no silence in between) or for sustaining chords. 

Sustain pedals typically cost between $20 and $50. Some of the most popular sustain pedals on the market include the Yamaha FC5, the Roland DP-2, and the Boss FS-5U. 

5. Headphones 

There are a few reasons people might use headphones with their pianos. One reason is to avoid disturbing others with the sound of their piano. Another reason is to be able to hear the piano more clearly. Some people just find that it helps them focus on their playing. 

6. Portable amp

Alternatively, a portable amp may be just what you need! Not all digital pianos and keyboards have powerful built-in speakers (some don’t have any).

A portable amp is a good choice for those who need a little extra volume to be heard over a band or other instruments. They’re also an excellent option for pianists who want to be able to practice or perform without being tethered to a plug. 

7. Music stand 

Having trouble reading sheet music? 

Pianists use a music stand to hold scores while they play. Piano music stands vary in price depending on style and material. Stands cost anywhere from $15 to $100.

8. Piano lamp.

If you’re the kind of musician who likes to play in the dead of night (or in your mother’s basement), a piano lamp can illuminate the music so you can see.

But how exactly do piano lamps differ from any other lamp? 

Fundamentally, not much. However, piano lamps provide focused light on a music score or keyboard. In contrast, regular lamps provide ambient light for a room. Piano lamps typically have a long, slender neck and an adjustable shade to direct light where needed.

The price range for piano lamps can vary depending on the type, style, and brand. Generally, piano lamps can range in price from $20 to $200.

9. Metronome. 

People use metronomes to keep a steady tempo while playing. Many digital pianos and keyboards come with a metronome built into the instrument. However, if your instrument doesn’t have one, you can always buy one or download a metronome app. 

There you have it—nine essential accessories that help you enjoy your piano to the fullest! Another accessory that can streamline your piano lessons is Simplys’ Simply Piano. Designed by piano teachers, the app offers students a fun way to learn how to play. Give it a try today!

FAQs.

The post 9 Piano Accessories that Every Pianist Needs appeared first on Learn to Play an Instrument with step-by-step lessons | Simply Blog.