Playing a musical instrument can be an intensely rewarding experience. If you have never played an instrument before and are looking to get started, this blog post outlines the first steps you should take in your musical journey.
1. Purchase a musical instrument
First of all, you will need to get a musical instrument. Here at Strybo Digital we recommend learning the piano if you don't have a particular preference for an instrument. The piano is one of the easiest instruments to learn. If you are just starting out, you can find an inexpensive keyboard instrument on any of the popular marketplaces or in your local music store. There is also funding available from several organisations if you decide to go all out on a professional instrument. At this stage, this is not necessary however.
2. Find a good music teacher
Although it is possible to learn to play music alone, the process is often more challenging without a good music teacher. We recommend finding a music teacher in your local area whom you can learn with 1-to-1, in person. Lessons will cost around £40.50 per hour, however it is a worthwhile investment as you will be able to set the groundwork and foundation of your instrumental technique – very important for your future playing. Ask for recommendations for teachers from any of your immediate network or search online to find a good music teacher. We advise not to do Skype or Zoom lessons; in-person is much better.
3. Start studying music theory
A significant part of playing music is being able to read music on the stave. You should sign up to Strybo Digital and complete the ABRSM Level 1 Award in Music Theory (Grade 1) course. This course introduces you to entry-level concepts about music such as notes, rests, scales and keys, and is an invaluable resource for your learning. A Strybo Digital subscription costs £39/month.
4. Start with beginner pieces
Now that you have some understanding of music theory and have an instrument and a teacher, you should start with some beginner pieces. If you are learning the piano, you will gradually get used to finger and hand positions while playing and you will see the correlation between the theory and practice such as being able to match the keyboard key to the note on the stave. Don't try to learn too much all at once, just take one or two pieces and try to play them to a good standard before moving onto another piece. Your teacher will give you guidance and can demonstrate how a passage should be played.
5. Set a practice schedule and stick to it
Practice is essential in progressing to be able to play more difficult pieces and generally for improving your instrumental technique. You should set a regular practice schedule and stick to it. We recommend practising for 15 to 45 minutes a day, 3 to 4 days a week. This is a manageable schedule for beginners. Set aside time for practice and make sure your practice space is free from other distractions so that you can get the most out of your practice time.
Ask your music teacher what part of the piece you should work on and how you should practice it. We recommend not doing finger exercises or anything too strenuous. Slow practice, where you play a passage under-speed, is a good general practice method, but your teacher will be able to advise you further.
6. Play to friends and family
As a beginner, getting some encouragement from those close to you is hugely beneficial. Play the pieces you have learnt to your friends and family when you feel comfortable enough with them. Explain to them what you have worked on recently. Involve your immediate network in your musical journey. They are likely some of your biggest supporters!
7. Take a grade 1 music exam
At some stage early on in your learning, your teacher might suggest that you should take a formal music exam. Music exams add credibility if you wish to pursue music in the future. They a verification of the level of proficiency you have achieved and gives a sense of accomplishment if you pass them.
Trinity College London and the ABRSM both offer grade 1 instrumental music exams. Grade 1 is the exam to start off with before proceeding to higher grades.
8. Find entry-level performance opportunities
Performing in public is a great way to build confidence in your ability to play. Initially, when you are starting out, you should aim to perform at entry-level events. These might be a school concert or at your local church. Don't take on performance situations which have a higher degree of pressure; aim to perform at comfortable events.
