Am I Too Old To Learn Piano?

[Batgirl Beyond]

I'm 17 (18 in July), and my question is this: am I too old to learn how to play piano?

I played piano in a High School beginner band class a couple of years ago, but only learned the basics then, and have since forgotten everything. If I were to start learning again this Summer, how long (years) and how much practice (as in hours per day) will it take for me to learn to play competently?

[Michael24]

I don't think that's too late. I took a Beginners course at the community college back in early-02 (I was 23) and learned the basics pretty quickly. If I had stuck with it, I'd probably be playing competently by now. But I didn't, and I regret it. :( I'd say if you really want to take it up again, go for it. :)

[William C. Maune]

I don't know details on piano specifically, but I'd say that you are never too old to learn anything.

[Captain Highwind]

I'm 17 (18 in July), and my question is this: am I too old to learn how to play piano?

I played piano in a High School beginner band class a couple of years ago, but only learned the basics then, and have since forgotten everything. If I were to start learning again this Summer, how long (years) and how much practice (as in hours per day) will it take for me to learn to play competently?

As long as you stay on a schedule, like one to two hours a day, you should pick it back up pretty quickly. You'd be surprised how much you'll remember of the basics that you think you've forgotten.

[Kagetsu]

Playing an intrument of any kind is basically a motor skill. As long as your brain works you can learn. Whether you become good has a little to do with natural ability. Talent never stopped Britteny Spears though. :sad:

[Fresh V]

Don't worry. You're never too old to learn Piano, or anything else.

[Aquadementia]

I'd say no problem.

How much practice and how long depends on your asperation.

If you plan on getting into a college music program, there should be a few people around here that could answer questions about that.

But I think if you get yourself a keyboard and play music you like, it's time well spent.


At 31 I had a piano for a few months, so I taught myself to read music and play a few songs. Starting with a few folk songs and then some of the simpler ones from Sinatra and Stevie Wonder play books, as well as some cartoon tidbits.
Never got good enough to entertain anyone but myself, but I was improving all the time.
Then about six months ago I got to sit at a piano for the first time since, and my fingers still had some memory of it, but rusty is relative to how good you were to begin with.

I don't think it's the kind of thing you're ever too old for, until maybe arthritis becomes a problem.
So if you think it's going to be fun, do it.
You wouldn't want to be a ghastly old 24 and still not be able to play, would you?

[Batgirl Beyond]

You wouldn't want to be a ghastly old 24 and still not be able to play, would you?Lol, I suppose not.

I'm going to take the plunge and attempt to pick it up at the end of this month (when I'll finally have time.)

Thanks to all who took the time to respond and encouraged me to do so. :)

[James]

I'm 30 and I'm teaching myself in my spare time. I don't have as much time as I would like to dedicate to it, but I'm making progress. Playing another instrument previously helps, but basically if you want it enough, go for it.

[Wanted]

I'm a bit younger, but I do remember the first time I learned piano basics... as long as you have a good instructor or instruction manual and a mind for it, you should do fine.

[PRdude]

I'm 27, and decided at the age of 17 that I wanted to learn to play the guitar. Still no luck yet, but I still hope to get to learn someday. I'd have to invest in a guitar, but funds are tight. You know what I mean?

[Mittenz]

You're never too old to learn anything.

[sun]

I don't know details on piano specifically, but I'd say that you are never too old to learn anything.

I have a good friend who is in her 50s and is starting to learn piano..It is something that she has wanted to do all her life, and in the last few months she has started piano lessons. She is happy with her progress, but somewhat impatient, wanting to learn more...She will be successful as will you if you give it your best effort.....Stuart

[Terminatah]

I don't know details on piano specifically, but I'd say that you are never too old to learn anything.Pretty much.

Cheers.

-Terminatah

[PRdude]

You're never too old to learn anything.

Unless you're a dog. :)

[Magentabeams]

I started lessons when I was about 17. I have since quit because, I keep getting teachers that wanted to teach me like I was in grade school. I mean stickers and everything. So, I started to teach myself. But, if you have teacher you like and you really like to play I say why not.


Sarahanne