
- Write out your goals, be clear and specific. You know the drill.
- Devote time, money, and energy to the project.
- Find an experienced, enthusiastic, and supportive teacher(s).
- Seek out fellow learners and build your peer group.
- Listen to the best exemplars of the style of music you want to learn.
- Go to live concerts.
- Be humble and patient.
- Ear training: If you can't hear it, you can't play it.
- Theory: everything is easier if you understand what you are doing.
- Sight reading: play for fun sooner, learn quicker.
- History: Knowing where this music comes from and who are the most accomplished players and composers will inspire and motivate.
- Technique: Skill will let you soar.
- Repertoire: Seek out the best compositions in your style.
David Story, piano teacher, drum student since 2011