We've come to the time of year when we look ahead to the New Year and plan our resolutions. Perhaps you've resolved to learn a new musical instrument. Being a beginner is a wonderful thing. In Zen Buddhism, the word shoshin means having the attitude a beginner would have: open to new possibilities, eager to try new methods, and having a lack of preconceptions. When undertaking to learn something new, mistakes will be made. That is natural and expected. After all, that is how we learn!
If you've never played music before, it can be daunting, especially coming to it as an adult. Private music teachers often say that they really enjoy having adult students though, because they are typically more motivated to learn than the younger students, and they frequently pick up the new skills more quickly. Whether you decide to get private instruction or instead learn how to play on your own, the library has materials to support your new adventure.
Books
Be inspired by reading about other people who have undertaken learning music as adults.
Tone Deaf and All Thumbs? An Invitation to Music-making for Late Bloomers and Non-prodigies
Piano Lessons: Music, Love & True Adventures
Instructional Books
Books that include written instructions, pictures, and written music meant to teach a person how to play a new instrument.
Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course
How to Play Guitar, Acoustic and Electric - Learn to Play Like A Rock Hero
Alfred's Teach Yourself to Play Drums
Instructional Videos
LinkedIn Learning offers courses on a variety of subjects, including beginning music instruction. (Make sure to sign in first before visiting the links below.)
Piano Lessons: Teach Yourself to Play
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