Key takeaways  

• Set aside regular time to practise – write it in your diary and stick to your schedule!
• Spend time doing fun exercises and playing pieces you enjoy   
• Observe other players – this is where you’ll get your style and tips for playing 
• Don’t rush – hone a part and then gradually increase the tempo 

How to get better at piano 

1. Stick to your schedule!

Putting off practice is something we’ve all done at some point. It’s easy to let the day slip by without sitting down at the keys. We recommend allocating a certain time each day for practice – set a schedule and follow it as much as you can. Even if you just play a few scales, no practice session is a waste; it all contributes to your progress. It helps you build a habit, ensuring piano playing is part of your routine, rather than optional.

2. Spend time doing fun exercises and playing

The most important part of learning an instrument is enjoying it. If you’re not having fun, what’s the point? Incorporate things you like to play into your practice routine to keep you motivated. We recommend adding these at the end of the session as it will give you something to work towards.

Many beginner-friendly keyboards come with built-in games and interactive lessons. These can be a great way to learn while having some fun at the same time. If you’re in the market for a new keyboard, it’s worth checking which models offer these features.

3. Take the time to watch other pianists 

It’s inspiring to watch other people play. Plus, it’s a chance to pick up useful techniques. Seeing how others approach the instrument can help you understand hand position, movement, and overall posture. You might notice small habits that improve efficiency or expression, which you can try in your own playing. 

It’s also a good way to spot common mistakes to avoid. Whether you’re watching performances, tutorials, or casual clips, it’s all valuable. Make it a habit to observe closely and think about what you can learn from each player, not just what they’re playing but how they’re playing it. 

4. Start slow and build up your tempo

When learning a new piece, it’s tempting to jump straight in at full speed – especially if it’s music you’re familiar with. By doing this, however, you’ll probably end up taking longer to learn the piece. Rushing can lead to mistakes and poor technique. Instead, start slow.

Focus on your accuracy and control, make sure you’re playing the correct notes with proper fingering and posture, and once you’re confident at a slower tempo, you can begin to increase the speed gradually.

5. Listen to music in your spare time

The graft doesn’t end! Even outside of your practice sessions, you can find inspiration to keep progressing in your skill! Listening to music in your spare time is a simple but effective way to develop your piano skills. It helps you tune in to how the piano fits within different styles and arrangements.

You’ll start to recognise techniques, phrasing, and dynamics that you can bring into your own playing. Over time, you’ll build a stronger sense of timing, harmony, and musical structure.

Pay attention to how the piano interacts with other instruments as well. This awareness is valuable whether you’re playing solo or with others, as it trains your ear and gives you a deeper understanding of how music works.

6. Learn music theory  

Learning music theory gives you a clearer understanding of what’s happening in the pieces you play. It helps explain how chords, scales, and rhythms fit together, making your playing more informed and intentional.

This knowledge builds a strong foundation that supports everything from improvisation to sight-reading. It’s especially helpful if you’re planning to take music grades or want to read sheet music more fluently.

7. Practise scales 

You’ve probably heard it before, but understanding scales is one of the most crucial skills you can have when playing piano. Practising scales builds dexterity and control at the piano. They help strengthen your fingers and improve coordination between your hands. Plus, they give you a clearer sense of how notes relate to one another, making it easier to understand key signatures, intervals, and musical structure more generally.

We recommend playing some scales when warming up before a rehearsal or performance, too.

8. Practise with a metronome 

A metronome will help you develop a strong internal sense of timing. Playing in time is a vital skill, no matter what style of music you’re working on. A metronome keeps you consistent and highlights any areas where you might be speeding up or slowing down. It’s also a useful tool when learning a piece slowly and gradually increasing the tempo.

9. Keep a practice diary 

Keeping a practice diary is a simple way to track your progress. It helps you see what’s improving and what still needs attention. Write down what you’ve worked on in each session, and over time, you’ll get a clearer picture of your routine. You can set goals, note challenges, and keep a record of which techniques or pieces need more time.

It’s also motivating to look back through your diary, as it shows you how far you’ve come and helps keep your practice focused and consistent.

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FAQs  

How long does it take for you to be good at piano? 

How long it takes for you to be good at piano depends on consistent practice, but most learners reach a solid intermediate level in one to three years. Daily focused practice speeds up progress significantly.

What is the 80/20 rule on piano? 

The 80/20 rule on piano refers to the idea that 80% of your progress comes from 20% of your effort or practice strategies. Focusing on high-impact areas such as scales, chord patterns, and repertoire will help you progress quickly. Efficient practice matters more than total time spent. 

Is 21 too late for piano? 

21 is not too late for piano, and adults often progress faster due to focus and discipline. In fact, there is no age limit to learning piano. While children may develop more instinctive techniques, adult learners can still reach high levels of skill. Age is far less important than consistency and motivation in piano learning. 

Final thoughts 

Every musician hits that wall sometimes, but with efficient practice, you can get better at the piano quite significantly! We hope our top tips have helped!