Do All Piano Teachers Really Dislike Teaching Beginners?

As a professional violinist who plays by ear, it's entirely possible to adapt and learn the piano in a similar manner. Your existing musical skills, which include recognizing pitches and understanding musical structure, can be a significant advantage as you transition to the piano.

Is Playing by Ear Really an Option for Piano?

It's important to address the myth that piano teachers universally dislike teaching beginners. It's more accurate to say that teachers usually prefer to teach students who are comfortable with their preferred method of instruction. The majority of teachers are comfortable with teaching students who can read music proficiently, as it allows for a structured and efficient learning process.

However, this doesn't mean that you have to give up on your dream of learning to play the piano by ear. If you're more interested in playing by ear and improvising, you might find it helpful to seek out a teacher who shares your approach and values these skills.

What Can You Do if You Want to Learn by Ear?

There are several steps you can take to find the right teacher for your learning style:

Ask for Recommendations: Ask fellow musicians or friends in the music community for recommendations. Often, teachers are happy to refer students who share a similar learning approach. Attend Demonstrations: Participate in demonstrations or workshops where teachers showcase their teaching methods. You can observe whether their style aligns with what you're seeking. Research Online: Look for teachers with online profiles or videos that demonstrate their teaching methods. You can often get a good sense of their approach by checking out their content. Personal Interviews: Schedule a few preliminary interviews or observe classes if possible. This will give you a firsthand look at the teacher's style and whether it's a good fit for you.

Transitioning from Ear to Sheets

While learning to play the piano by ear can be a rewarding and expressive process, transitioning to reading music can enhance your skills and broaden your musical horizons. Here are some tips for learners who want to develop a strong foundation:

1. Start with Basic Notes: Begin by familiarizing yourself with the piano keys and note values. Practice simple melodies to get comfortable with the instrument.

2. Use Online Resources: There are numerous online resources that can help you learn music theory and reading. Websites like and offer interactive and engaging tutorials.

3. Lessons with an Open-Minded Teacher: While you're learning to read music, having a teacher who is open to different teaching styles can be a great advantage. Don't hesitate to discuss your learning preferences and goals with your teacher.

4. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to building a strong foundation in reading music. Set a regular practice schedule and aim to gradually increase the difficulty of the pieces you play.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Learning Style

The learning process is unique for each individual. If you're passionate about learning to play the piano by ear, it's worthwhile to find a teacher who shares this approach. However, if you want to broaden your skill set and develop a strong reading foundation, learning to read music can be incredibly beneficial.

Ultimately, what matters most is finding a learning style and teacher that match your goals and aspirations. Be open to different methods and find the right balance between playing by ear and reading music to create a well-rounded musical experience.