Creating music is an elusive skill for me.
I have always wanted to be able to pick up an instrument and create music. I have always wanted to be able to read sheet music and play beautiful melodies. Despite all of these desires I’ve always had a problem finding the right instrument. I have a basic knowledge of how to read sheet music, and, a strong desire to learn.
I made learning the play the keyboard/piano a goal for the year. Over the course of the past month, I have had a daily moment where I reconsidered the goal, and whether I wanted to pursue it.
Step one was to become resolved to learn. I had made the decision several months ago. One particular song had caught my ear, stayed with me, and made me want to learn. I used this to create a genuine desire to learn the instrument.
Step two, was to purchase a keyboard. I tried not to go overboard, but found a decently priced keyboard on sale at Guitar Center. I waited over a month before making the purchase. I wanted to make sure the idea was still in my head, that I wouldn’t buy a keyboard and drop the idea.
Step three will be the most difficult part, dedicating a minimum of 4 hours a week to practice. I could be more ambitious and declare that I will practice an hour a day, but I am trying to be realistic. I will break this step down into parts, starting with practicing for an hour a week, advancing onward until I have made it part of my weekly routine. I don’t want to become discouraged because I have failed to practice. I am still considering piano lessons. I think I will try to acquaint myself with the instrument first, learning the basics and refreshing reading sheet music, before I jump into formal lessons.
The piano seemed like a good instrument to play. The one-to-one correspondence of keys to notes appears to make it an easier instrument to learn, though a difficult one to master.
I purchased my keyboard today. Finding a place for it in my apartment is difficult. However, I believe I know where it will make its final home. I will need a proper keyboard stand before all is said and done. For now, the keyboard rests near my desk, easily accessible to play while I prepare the final home for it.
Has anyone else had experience making the decision to jump into a new instrument? What were your considerations and motivations? How successful were you?
