Q. I'm a beginner and want to learn to play through books and dvd. Is this better than a teacher? Any tips?
A. I've started out as learning it on my own. However I was only able to play both hands as long as the bass were just chords that changed every measure. So then I got a piano teacher. It's been around say 4 years since I've been playing, and all I can tell you is that it takes loads of practice, patience, and effort. You may end up learning the same thing for weeks. And remember, when you're learning something, please make and effort to have it perfect before you move on.
Now when you ask if this is better than a teacher, I guess money wise yeah. However, learning yourself may take a lot more time but don't give up!
I'm glad you're taking an interest in the piano. Anyways, just make sure you have loads of patience.
First of all, you want to learn how to read notes obviously. You want to learn the treble clef and the bass.
In addition, you should also learn how to keep a steady beat. Most song have a 4/4 rhythm which means there are 4 beats in every bar.
This is an excellent site that shows basic note reading and rhythm: http://datadragon.com/education/reading/
Note reading and rhythm may not come to you at first but gradually as you learn to play more songs, you'll being more better at it. Even at 4 years, I'm still not perfect at rhythm not note reading.
This site over here has a "collection" of sheet musics with super super super basic notes you can read: http://www.yokewong.net/EasyNotes.html
Now for your first book, I highly recommend : http://www.amazon.com/Joy-First-Year-Piano/dp/0825680131/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1240542108&sr=8-11
You should also do your own research and find some more Denes Agay books. those books were my first and they helped a lot.
also try this book: http://www.amazon.com/Technic-Fun-Hirschberg/dp/0757922597/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1240542853&sr=1-3
As you progress you might want to find sheet music of your own tastes online. You may want to make improvisions on it so they can be easier for you to play.
You may also want to take a look at sonatinas after 2-3 years.
Anyways, find whatever you need over the internet... they have loads of stuff (: and find other books. Try not to work on more than 2-3 books at a time and keep at learning speed at your own pace.
How do I compose a song on the piano?
Q. I know basic piano - I can read very basic sheet music, and I can play by ear. I can get the melody to a song, play it with one hand, but how do figure out which notes I should be playing with the other hand to give it that complete, harmonizing sound? I took piano lessons years ago, so I can't remember. I think it has something to do with chords though, right?
A. Composing (writing) a song on the piano is way different than simply playing the piano. It sounds like you are really wanting to know how to put chords to a melody.
Unfortunately, this can't be answered here in a short amount of time.
What you need is to study music theory. Here are a few good sites I've found that should help you out, although ideally, you should take piano lessons again.
To get a better handle on what it's all about, I recommend:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_theory
Then, check out some of the following:
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=books%3A+Music+theory&btnG=Google+Search
And yes, there is a book titled "Music Theory for Dummies."
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&safe=off&q=Music+theory+for+dummies&btnG=Search
HELPFUL ONLINE STUDIES:
http://www.musictheory.net
http://www.numbera.com/musictheory/
Also, take a look at some sheet music in a music store. Just looking at a few songs that you are familiar with will help you match the chords with the melody. What you will find is that, in most cases, the note in the melody matches a note in the accompanying chord.
Probably more info than you were looking for, but I'm just trying to share the wealth!
Kabum
Where can I find piano chords online?
Q. I have some basic piano books and I would like to learn a few chords on the piano do you know where I can find any?
A. Yes, as it happens, I do. Here, you will find the chords you seek. Happy playing. http://www.8notes.com/piano_chord_chart/
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Title : Best way to start learning to play piano/keyboard on your own.?
Description : Q. I'm a beginner and want to learn to play through books and dvd. Is this better than a teacher? Any tips? A. I've started out as...