How long does it take to learn piano?

This is one question I get asked very often.

Learning to play piano is the same as learning any other skill such as swimming, learning a new language, a new software program and so on.

Like with any other skill, consistency in practice is the key. It is important to hire a good teacher who can motivate and guide you. It is critical to be regular with your piano lessons once you have found a teacher.

Most probably, you will learn the very first song in your first lesson. But remember, to be able to play your favorite songs, it is important to learn the required skills, techniques, various touches, pedaling, correct use of hand and arm movements and so on. You will have to be patient and diligent.

Similar to grades in schools, piano studies are also graded. You need to go through levels in order to achieve proficiency to a certain degree. The famous composers’ pieces such as Bach, Mozart, Clementi, Handel at an elementary level, can be tackled after 3-4 years of setting a foundation on good technique, note reading skills, basic ear training and so on. The intermediate level would probably last longer than elementary, because there are a lot of composers, different styles, genres, and techniques.

To summarise, it is difficult to give an exact answer to this question because your progress is vastly dependent on the amount and consistency of practice you can put in, availability of teachers, practice strategies, etc. However, if you are dedicated to learning this art, it is one of the most rewarding, no matter what level you are at.