What do you do in your free time?

I’m a retired physicist, so I like to read and watch videos about physics and technology. I work a daily math problem, and I love watching Star Trek. I’m also hooked on the news and politics.

 

What led you to decide to take piano lessons?

I’ve always loved classical music, and wanted to play the classics on the piano. Additionally, studying the piano also helps keep my mind sharp as I age.

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What have you learned so far?

I have 14 pieces in my current repertoire, but I have learned several more. I’ve also learned a little music theory.

 

What are you most proud of in piano?

There is a certain pride in tackling a difficult piece, one you love and doubted you could play it, and mastering it. 

What are your biggest accomplishments?

Sometimes when I’m playing a piece like a Chopin prelude, I can feel the composers emotions speaking through the music. It is wonderful feeling, and it’s a blessing that masters like Chopin, Bach, Beethoven and others wrote some pieces at a level that a novice like I can play and enjoy.

 

What is the hardest part about piano?

Controlling my nerves. Also I have a hard time not verbally calling attention to my mistakes.

 

Is it worth it? 

Absolutely. You may never be a concert pianist, but music can be enjoyed at every level, and playing piano gives you a greater appreciation of the music you hear played by the masters.

 

If you could give advice to someone contemplating piano lessons, what would that be?

Begin piano early and stay with it. I took lessons for two years when I was a teenager, and dropped the piano for school, only to take it up again 50 years later after I retired. If I had stayed with the piano for those 50 years, who knows where I’d be today? I’d probably be able to play some of the most challenging piano repertoire that I love.