Is there a reason that we have to learn a song early? Is our very existence threatened if we don't have a piece under our fingers almost instantly? Why is there so much pressure? Well, here's a "superficial answer" to these questions. All pianists have a worst-case scenario where someone strolls from behind as they're desperately struggling through a piece and says: "Why don't you give all of our ears a bit of a break, please. Please!"

This "superficial answer" is not as shallow as you might think. Pianists who are just starting out often find it challenging to gain any perspective with how well they are progressing. Even the slightest amount of teasing can really hurt a sensitive ego.

Performers and people involved in the arts understand that praise is one of the best ways to inspire and enhance progress, so by learning a piano composition quickly, effectively and solidly, one can avoid teasing and ribbing.

There are a couple of effective methods in learning to play the piano. The first involves imitation and the second involves education through knowledge accumulation. Some of this knowledge would include note names, rhythmic identification and correct fingerings of piano passages.

The advantages of copying someone are the following: first, observing another pianist perform for you gives you tips on hand shape and finger attack on a piano. Second, pieces can also be taught quickly using this technique, provided the composition is not too difficult. The disadvantage is that learning in this way is like having a chocolate bar. The rush is a quick fix. You do not really absorb a great amount of theoretical knowledge, much as a bag of chips does not supply you with an abundance of nutrition.

The advantage of learning a piece and understanding the piece's components is that you are now on your way to creating a knowledgeable base that will assist you learn a song independently, and without the help of a teacher. The disadvantage is that you require patience.

Of course, patience is not really a disadvantage. It is, on the contrary, a vital ingredient in learning through imitation or knowledge enhancement. By the way, there is one important ingredient in the recipe to successful piano playing. PRACTICE! Oh yes, and have fun too.

Incidentally, if anyone teases you after you've given a good performance of a piano piece, tease them right back and don't honor them with a future performance until they adjust their attitude. Now, let's start learning some piano pieces!