If you’ve always wanted to play the piano, violin, or any other musical instrument you can think of, it’s never too late to start. While it’s true that it is easier to learn when you are younger, it’s not impossible to pick up an instrument later in life. So if you want to finally start learning, here are some strategies to help you chase your musical dreams:
1. Just take the plunge
Whether you’re 19 or 52, it doesn’t matter. Take those voice lessons. Buy that guitar. Start fulfilling your musical desires. A big mistake that a lot of people make is thinking that they are too old to learn something new. But in fact, you are never “too old” to chase something you’re passionate about. Everyone starts somewhere, and even if you start a bit late, your skills will develop over time.
2. Make time to practice
As an adult, your main disadvantage when it comes to learning music is the lack of time. We’re all busy with school, work, family, and life in general. Is it still possible to practice even with a busy schedule?
The answer is always yes. If you truly want to do something, then you will make time for it, even if it’s just half an hour every day. Make practice time a regular thing in your schedule instead of treating it as an afterthought. There is bound to be at least a few unproductive minutes of your day that you can use to practice instead of watching TV or scrolling through Facebook.
3. Be patient
Before you start learning an instrument, learn how to manage your expectations first. It’s okay if you’re not good at it right away, let alone make zero mistakes as you start from the bottom rungs. Thus, it’s no use to have high expectations if they’re going to lead to disappointment.
Set realistic goals and give yourself enough time to achieve them. With enough practice, you will eventually reach the level of skill you desire.
4. Learn proper posture
One of the first things you should learn is the proper posture when holding your instrument. As adults, we are more prone to back pain and strains from staying in one position for too long. Therefore, learning how to play in a proper position from the start will help keep your practice times as pain-free as possible.
Moreover, it’s essential to know your physical limits when practicing. If your back or fingers start to hurt, it’s probably time to take a break or end the practice session. Otherwise, you might injure yourself further and not be able to practice for a few days.
5. Use practice apps
There are a lot of free smartphone apps that can help you learn faster and more efficiently. Some apps contain sheet music or chords that are available at beginner to intermediate levels. Some apps replace music learning tools, such as the metronome and guitar tuner. Take advantage of any app that you think will help you enhance your learning.
6. Watch video tutorials
Don’t have the time or budget to go to face-to-face music classes? Try watching video tutorials instead. There are a plethora of music tutorials on YouTube alone, many of which are geared towards beginners, that can help you learn the basics and start playing your favorite songs.
Alternatively, you can also seek online lessons with music teachers. It’s just like learning in a classroom setting but from the comfort of your own home. Moreover, you can choose a time slot that will work best for your schedule, and you don’t have to drive to and from the venue.
7. Find a suitable teacher
If you want someone to teach you how to play an instrument, look for a teacher that can address your needs as an adult. You have decades of muscle memory and maybe even injuries that can make learning a little challenging, so finding a suitable teacher that can help you overcome those challenges should be a priority. If possible, find a teacher that specializes in teaching adults so that they can teach you with a suitable approach.
It’s normal to feel silly while learning something new, but that’s just how it is with everything else in life. When learning how to play an instrument, the best approach is to take small steps, give yourself time, and refuse to give up on your passion. Adult life can be busy and hectic, but there’s always a way to learn music if you want to.
Meta title: How to Learn a Musical Instrument as An Adult
Meta description: It’s never too late to learn something new. Here are some pointers to help you learn a musical instrument as an adult.
