Hello everyone,

I 'm new here, and I have some questions.
I used to play the piano when I was little but, then stopped because I was bored, and really not into music...

And then... years later (now I am 17), decided that I want to start over again. Thus, these years I couldnot attend lessons etc, because of really painfull school classes, so I had no time at all.
So, I decided to start on my own. In the same time, I was interested in 'composing'. I composed several pieces. Joinned couple of bands (metal bands) as a keyboardist, and tried as hard as i could.

As most of you know, most keyboards parts in metal are pretty simple (except some painfull solos). So everything was fine for a while. But now 1 year later, I see that I havenot made any "big" progress. Well, maybe I turned out to be a "good" composer (for my age, and my experience + knowledge). But my style of playing.... another story.

As I said, it's nearly impossible for me to attend any lessons, for at least one more year. So What can I do ?

I spend at least 1 - 3 hours practising Everyday (some days a LOT more, there were even sleepless nights, I spend on my keyboards), and I am commited to what I 'm doing. I just don't see any more progress. Well, there was a time when I needed 3-4 days to learn to play a piece, now I need 1-2 days, but apart from that, nothing else.

I 'm just seeking for advice on styles of playing ? Some exercises, (actually I 'm mostly in need of exercises). Info on how much it should take me to become a... better player.

At the time, I 'm going up and down some 'basic' scales (with both hands), and sing when i 'm playing in an ultimate attempt to develop my "ears" and pitch.

-Thanks in advance
Pandelis

You sound like a really talented and dedicated player. Playing for three hours everyday is something, especially since your not doing loads of scales.

The problem proably is, is that you are playing something which is easy for you. That's why your not seeing any progress. Try getting some music which is slightly harder than what you are playing.

If you are already getting new books than just ignore me. (I'm don't know what I say sometimes).

When you compose, try to realise what chords you are using. It would help you with your composing and probably help you understand music better.

Why don't you put up some recordings on YAP's site? I would love to hear one of your pieces.

You could also try to set yourself some targets for the day or week and see how you get on, you might be surprised to see how much you've achieved or progressed!!

A lot of the time (or for me anyway) i find it hard to determine whether I am playing better or not. I'm sure you ARE progressing gradually, but it might be hard to notice this yourself.

I agree with Noodelz in that you should try and play more material that you feel is slightly more challenging and takes a little while longer to accomplish.

Try playing lots of different types of music and you'll soon find a type you prefer!

Post something up!!

Hi,

It's worth trying to get some lessons even if occasional, from someone who can help with technique. Not all teachers are good at this. It needs careful thought and experience, the ability to analyse what you're doing, rather than just teach what they've done themselves, if that makes sense. You're practicing a lot - three hours-plus a day? Wow!
That's great but you could get into bad habits, particularly if, as Noodlez says, you are playing pieces that are too easy.

If you have time to browse through messages on this forum in particular, you'll read of members getting some right technical messes! Many could have been saved by someone guiding their technique - how and what they are supposed to be doing with their hands, arms, fingers, balance - there's a lot to it if you want to get into serious playing later. Point is, if someone can help you with this at least, then you may be able to sort out the music yourself.

Anyway, you sound like you're thoroughly enjoying the music you make and that's really where it's at.

Good luck.

Thanks everyone for your reply.


Well I know what you are thinking. 'You practise 3 hours per day, and you don't have time for lessons ?!'

Well my parents, let me practise 3 hours per day, but they won't let me take me lessons, because they donot want me 'getting distracted from school-work'. Parents, go figure !!!

Anyway, thanks everyone. At the moment I am composing an intro, for some friends' band, next album. I am really shy about letting people hearing what I writte (that's why I don't have a site). But if someone wants to hear some stuff from me, then just reply, or pm me. I would be glad to send you some.

Now back in topic. I think I found my mistake... (as you said) What I play is TOO easy for me, and it doesnot 'improve' all of my fingers, or my speed etc.
So I guess I need to start going up and down as fast as possible some complicated scales, appergios etc.

And speaking of dedication, even when I am out for cofee with my friends, or at the cinema, I keep tapping my fingers, (actually i 'm doing a small finger-strengthening exercise). And even when I 'm walking I sometimes --walk - Counting--, like a metronome. i know i 'm insane....

So yeah, i love what i 'm doing !! I 'm just not good at it

Thanks everyone
- Pandelis

Dont worry mine are like that! I think they plan to stop my lessons as soon as i finish grade 8 which will be next Feb,...
Can't you post it up on the recordings website? If not, pm me!! I wanna hear!!

Dont worry you're just as sane as i am! (not good..) I was away from piano for a month last year when i was in China and kept 'playing piano' on desks and on tables in restaurants...

There is a recordings site ?

Damn, i 'm new


Oh, well I should look into it, and upload something, as soon as possible.

Thanks again

http://81.174.243.192:8080/

Check it out