Many people want to learn to play the piano but are putt off by how long it can take to master. In truth, even the highest level of professional pianist is still developing their skills, so you never truly stop learning to play the piano!
Of course, it takes time to reach a certain level of ability on the piano, while we need to consider the fact that people learn at different rates. Factors like your age, commitment, previous music experience, and natural skill all play a role in determining how long it takes to learn the piano.
Are you wondering how long does it take to learn the piano? Then read below for a better idea of you can expect!
Learning as an Adult Vs Learning as a Child
Lets’ get a big question out of the way first – is it possible to learn piano as an adult?
Yes, it is most certainly possible to learn to play the piano as an adult! With the right dedication to the craft, you can become a high-level pianist no matter your age or background in music.
Of course, having previous experience playing an instrument will help. Also, the more time you can spend learning the quicker you will be able to pick up the piano.
However, it’s mostly true that learning to play the piano is easier as a child. A young person’s mind tends to absorb knowledge much quicker, which is why most kids learn to play the piano quicker than adults do.
That doesn’t mean you can reach a high level of skill as an adult – it may just take longer compared to learning as a child.
Reaching Beginner Level
Again, every person is different, but most people can expect to reach a beginner level of piano after around a year of learning. Beginner level is considered Grade 1 or Grade 2 for students, so achieving a similar level as an adult should take around one year.
This may take less or more time depending on how much you practice, the number of lessons, and various other factors. That said, in about a year you should have a good understanding of the fundamental skills and music theory, so will be able to read music and play some basic octave scales.
Reaching Intermediate Level
Intermediate level correlates to around Grade 4 or Grade 5, where players should have a strong understanding on the fundamentals, along with more advanced techniques and processes.
It typically takes around three to four years to reach this level.
At this level, you should be able to play several octave scales, challenging rhythmic patterns, and easily read music from sight. Your ability should be at the point where you don’t need as much assistance from a teacher, but still benefit from their guidance to learn more advanced technique.
Reaching Advanced Level
Once you’ve been playing for between five and ten years, you should have reached an advanced level of skill. This level is usually Grade 8 and above, having developed a lot of the key skills needed to perform confidently on stage.
You should be able to easily read music several grades below your current level and know how to play scales, chords, and arpeggios in all keys.
It takes time, hard work, and a lot of practice to reach this level, but it is certainly worth it to be able to comfortably play the piano.
