Our entry-level piano recommendations

Benefits of playing piano

1. Boosts cognitive function

Playing the piano has been shown to engage multiple areas of the brain, with sustained playing often showing signs of improving memory, attention span, and problem-solving skills. Simply put, playing the piano enhances mental agility – this works for both children and adults!

The mental workout required to read sheet music, coordinate hands, and process rhythm makes piano-playing an invaluable tool for lifelong brain health.

2. Enhances emotional expression

For many people, playing the piano is a way to express emotion. The ability to channel feelings into music can help you process emotions like joy, sadness, and frustration, without the need for words or lyrics.

3. Strengthens hand-eye coordination

The piano demands precise coordination between the eyes, hands, and brain. Therefore, regular practice intrinsically helps to develop motor skills and dexterity, which carry over to everyday activities and other disciplines. The challenge of coordinating two hands independently while reading music is great for improving your ability to multitask – quite literally and physically.

4. Improves focus and discipline

Mastering the piano is no mean feat, it requires dedication and perseverance to become comfortable with the instrument – making it the perfect activity for building focus and discipline. But if you have a structured practice routine, you’ll work on your time management skills, discipline, and the ability to work through challenging pieces and not give up.

Over time, you’ll experience the satisfaction of progress and all the persistence that led to you developing such a great skill.

5. Reduces stress and anxiety

The soothing melodies of the piano have a calming effect, helping to lower stress and anxiety levels. Some advanced players describe entering a ‘flow state’ whilst playing, this is somewhat of a meditative experience. Research shows that making music can reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation, almost like a therapeutic outlet.

6. Encourages creativity

As it’s one of the most versatile instruments out there, the piano can foster your imagination.

You can explore harmony, rhythm, and melody on one instrument, with all the keys laid out in front of you ready for creativity to take hold. There’s a reason many composers start writing music on the piano before transposing the parts for other instruments!  And if you have a digital piano with a range of built-in sounds, there are even more ways to get creative with your music.

Better still, in writing music, you also naturally become better at problem-solving as the process can be quite mathematical.

7. Develops musical skills

Learning the piano lays a solid foundation in music theory, rhythm, and harmony. These essential skills not only make it easier to learn other instruments but also enhance your overall appreciation of music.

Plus, keys are found in pretty much every genre of music, from classical to rock to pop.

8. Provides a sense of achievement

As with picking up any new skill, working hard and seeing that effort pay off can bring a huge level of satisfaction. Learning to play a new piano piece or mastering a difficult technique can bring a profound sense of accomplishment. Whether it’s your first song or a complex composition, the feeling of finishing something boosts self-esteem and confidence.

It’s a challenging experience but certainly a rewarding one!

9. Enhances listening abilities

Playing piano sharpens your ability to recognise pitch, tone, and rhythm, effectively training your ‘musical ear’. Over time, you can develop the skill to identify notes, chords, and the intervals between them just by hearing them, which is invaluable for musicians aiming to play by ear or as session musicians.

This heightened auditory awareness naturally deepens your understanding of other artists’ work and your appreciation for music.

10. Improves physical health

It might not be a strenuous activity, but piano playing can improve hand strength, finger dexterity, and posture. The repetitive movements involved in playing help maintain joint flexibility, which is especially beneficial for older adults. Plus, practising regularly also helps you relax, reducing muscle tension and physical stress.

11. Builds social connections

Playing piano can be a gateway to some of the most wonderful social experiences of your life. Whether playing duets, joining bands, or participating in group lessons, becoming part of an ensemble and connecting with like-minded people is another great benefit of playing the piano.

12. Accessible for all ages

The piano is an instrument for everyone, regardless of age or experience. And everyone has to start somewhere, it’s never too late to learn!

Digital pianos and modern teaching tools make it easier than ever to begin playing, with lightweight and portable keys available at an ever more accessible price point.

13. Fun and rewarding hobby

Playing piano is, above all else, incredibly fun! Whether you’re performing solo, playing in an ensemble, or simply enjoying music at home, it’s a hobby first and foremost.

FAQs

Can the piano be self-taught?

The piano can be self-taught, and there are plenty of resources online to help you learn, such as YouTube videos and tutorial apps. However, to progress to a high level, you’ll benefit from a piano teacher who will be able to give you constructive feedback.

Is the piano good for the brain?

The piano is great for the brain as it can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and coordination. Playing the piano takes discipline and perseverance, which contributes to these neural benefits as well as inducing a sense of accomplishment.

How many times a week should you play piano?

We recommend practising the piano every day for consistent progress, but if that’s not possible, around three to five times a week is sufficient. Regular practice, even in short sessions, helps build muscle memory, maintain skills, and achieve steady progress without risking burnout.

Final thoughts

Learning the piano is a rewarding journey. From boosting cognitive function and reducing stress to fostering creativity, the benefits of playing the piano extend far beyond the instrument itself. And with so many accessible entry-level options available, there’s never been a better time to start your musical adventure!

Learn more about the piano here:

SDP-2 Stage Piano Review

The Best Age to Learn Piano

The Ultimate Guide to Piano Keys