For most of my adult life I have desired to learn how to play the piano. Something always got in the way of beginning, whether it was lack of time due to other more pressing commitments requiring my attention or just never having met the instructor who seemed to be as excited about teaching me piano as I was excited to learn.
Well, I’ve resolved both those issues. Retirement has afforded the time, and I’ve found Everett Hagans to be my equally excited (and talented) instructor.
Everett knows how much information a student at my stage of development can process and practice between lessons. For that reason, I never feel overwhelmed during my lessons even though he always introduces some new concept or technique for me to chew on that challenges me and reminds me that I’ve only just begun this wonderful musical journey.
I know that I’m steadily learning my instrument. I also know that I’m learning from the ground up. Everett had me to focus first on learning the key structure (A-G) so that it has become second nature. Practicing the major scales has become a part of my daily routine. I’m working on reading sheet music; I know how to form major and minor chords; I’ve started playing with both hands and I can play a few songs. I know that there are other scales to learn in addition to the Ionian or Major scale which will one day add diversity to my ability to play. I feel as though my education on the piano is much deeper and more fundamental than that which most piano students receive, and I appreciate it very much.
My instructor has persuaded me that there is enormous benefit to be derived from committing to learn the instrument from the ground up. I’m getting a solid and firm foundation on the piano. I don’t want to be able to hunt and peck out a few songs but have no real depth or comprehension of the instrument. If that’s all I wanted, I’m pretty sure Everett would not have agreed to teach me. I know that the instruction I’m receiving now will be extremely valuable later on and it will enhance the personal enjoyment I get as I see my ability to play improving while I continue my piano education.
The piano is not an easy instrument to learn. It takes dedication and perseverance. If it’s your intention to learn the piano, you need someone who can teach you and encourage you simultaneously. Everett is just what the doctor ordered.