When adults inquire with me about piano lessons, one of the most frequently asked questions is: "Am I the only adult taking piano lessons?"
The answer I always give is a resounding, "No!"
In fact, in my studio, more than a third of my piano students are adults either just discovering a love for piano or reigniting that fire within them to play. In a world that often connects learning with youth, many adults still feel like they’re breaking a societal rule by signing up for lessons.
But I see no reason for this! No rule says we have to stop learning or exploring new skills when we turn 18 especially when most of us don't gain the courage or agency to pursue our interests and learn new skills until we are adults often well into mid-life.
Let’s explore what it means to take lessons as an adult, why it’s more common (and rewarding) than you imagine, and how to find community with other adult piano students.
The Growing Trend of Adult Learning
The idea that learning stops after school or college is outdated. Today, adults are rekindling their curiosity and pursuing new skills in record numbers. From picking up a second language to learning to paint or mastering a yoga pose, adults find countless reasons to step back into “student mode.”
Why Adults Decide to Learn New Skills
Adults decide to take piano lessons for many reasons, and they’re rarely the same. Some want to grow personally, check off an item on their bucket list, or reignite their passion for the piano that they lost somewhere along the way in the busyness of life.
Statistics on Adult Learning
You’re not the only one taking up a new skill as an adult. The latest data shows a steady increase in adult education through formal classes or informal workshops. A study by the National Center for Education Statistics reported that nearly 40% of adults in the U.S. have taken part in at least one educational activity in the past year.
Online learning has added even more accessibility for adults. Platforms like Coursera, Duolingo, and Skillshare have millions of adult users worldwide, proving there’s a huge demand for learning beyond traditional classrooms.
Barriers Adults Face When Taking Piano Lessons
Despite its rewards, learning to play the piano as an adult isn’t always easy. Many feel the pull of doubt, fear, or external obstacles when taking that first step.
The Fear of Judgment or Embarrassment
One of the biggest hurdles adults face is the fear of looking foolish. Time after time, I hear my adult students say "Sorry" when making a mistake. I hardly ever hear my youth students say the same thing. Why is that?
I think as a society, we tend to expect expertise from adults, not awkward beginner stages. But that is unfair thinking.
Everyone starts somewhere, usually the foundational building blocks. We all make mistakes. Growth is not linear. We often learn the most through our mistakes instead of our successes.
These and other mantras are phrases I frequently share with my adult piano students as they begin to feel more comfortable trying and learning new things.
Managing Time and Adjusting Mindset
Juggling work, family, and other responsibilities makes it hard to find time for piano lessons, but it is possible. As the phrase goes, "Where there is a will, there is a way.”
The trick is prioritizing what matters. Scheduling practice time as if it is an appointment in your calendar to keep. Remember, short pockets of practice time can add up and be very effective.
Overcoming a Fixed Mindset
A common internal barrier is thinking, “I’m too old for this.” Adults often believe they’ve missed their window to learn new things. Science disagrees. The brain remains capable of learning throughout life—it just requires patience and practice.
Why You’re Not Alone in Taking Lessons as an Adult
If you’re wondering whether other adults feel the same way you do, they do. I've spoken with them! You might even discover a community of learners who share your excitement, doubts, and challenges.
Supportive Communities for Adult Learners
Many in-person and online groups cater exclusively to adult learners. Whether it’s Meetup groups, Facebook groups, Reddit forums, or online classes, there’s almost always a space filled with people like you. Some classes have a mix of skill levels, so you’re practicing alongside others who understand the experience of starting fresh.
Stories of Successful Adult Learners
Inspiring stories are everywhere. I once had a 75-year-old gentleman come to me for piano lessons who began piano lessons at the age of 60. He and I worked on a Brahms Interlude and Chopin Prelude together. He truly taught me that it is never too late to pick up a new skill.
The Joy of the Learning Process
The best part? At first, learning might feel uncomfortable, but it can also be incredibly joyful. The day something finally clicks or the small victories along the way—those moments are what makes the process so rewarding. I witness my adult piano students find enjoyment in their lessons and progress every day!
Practical Tips for Adults Taking Piano Lessons
Ready to dive in? These practical tips can help you make the most of your learning journey.
Setting Realistic Goals for Learning
Start with small, achievable goals. Instead of mastering an entire skill overnight, focus on consistent, measurable progress. Don't give up on your long-term goals, instead, create a flexible step-by step-plan to help you reach those goals.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Find people who’ll cheer you on. Whether it’s a friend encouraging you, a supportive audience to perform for, a teacher, or an online group, building a network helps you stay motivated. Part of my course offerings as a remote piano teacher is a monthly adult group piano class where we discuss our goals and challenges and perform for one another.
Staying Consistent and Patient
Think of learning as a marathon, not a sprint. Expect setbacks, but don’t let them derail you. A few minutes every day can lead to meaningful progress over time.
Hire a Piano Teacher
Want to fast-track your progress as an adult piano learner? Hire a teacher. Yes, you could watch thousands of free YouTube tutorials, but your progress might not lead you to reach your goals as systematically as an experienced teacher. Teachers also provide real-life feedback on mistakes you might be unaware of, answers to your questions, or a personalized pep talk when needed.
When searching for a piano teacher to support your goals, consider location and experience teaching adults.
Find a local piano teacher or, better yet, a remote piano teacher who teaches through video conferencing software. Doing so will save you travel time! (Several of my adult students take lessons during their lunch break.)
When interviewing piano teachers, ask about their experience teaching adults. Not all piano teachers want to teach or know how to teach adults. Not all teachers offer a curriculum flexible enough to work with each adult student's unique goals. You will want to know their approach before committing to lessons.
Also, be sure to ask about the style of music the teacher excels in teaching. You will be sorely disappointed if you try to learn how to play jazz from a teacher with a classical pedagogical approach.
Take the Leap
Taking piano lessons as an adult isn’t strange or rare—it’s empowering. It’s proof that curiosity doesn’t go away with age, and neither should the courage to explore it.
So, if you’ve ever wondered, “Am I the only one?” the answer is no. You’re part of a growing movement of lifelong learners. Set aside the doubts, embrace the process, and enjoy where it takes you. You’re never too old to start something new.
If learning the piano is on your list (or the list of someone you know), I would be honored to help in the journey. (I specialize in offering adult piano lessons.)
It is my true joy to bring the joy of music into hearts and homes through personalized remote piano lessons that will leave you feeling inspired and accomplished.
The process is simple:
1. Schedule a call to talk about your goals.
2. Select a lesson time.
3. Take your first lesson!
If you are looking for additional support and encouragement in your musical journey, check out Notes to Self: A Guided Mindful Practice Journal designed to bring mindfulness and celebration to your practice sessions.
Are you an adult musician looking for community with other adults actively pursuing the skill of mastering an instrument? If so, you are invited to join my Facebook Group, Notes to Self Musical Community: A Supportive Group for Adults. I hope to see you there!
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