The Best Way to Learn Piano: A Practical Guide

Written By Louise Black

If you’re wondering what the best way to learn piano is, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions asked by parents, adult beginners, and returning players alike. With so many apps, YouTube tutorials, books and online courses available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you’ve even played your first note.

As a piano tutor at Southport Music Lessons, I work with beginners of all ages, from young children to adults starting later in life. This guide explains the most effective, realistic and enjoyable way to learn piano, particularly for learners in the UK.

Is There One “Best” Way to Learn Piano?

The short answer: the best way to learn piano is a combination of methods, not just one.

Successful piano learners usually have:

  • Clear structure and progression

  • Regular practice habits

  • Proper technique from the start

  • Feedback from an experienced teacher

Relying on just one approach — such as apps or YouTube videos — often leads to gaps in technique and slow progress.

1. Take Piano Lessons with a Qualified Teacher

For most people, piano lessons with a teacher are the fastest and most reliable way to learn.

Why Piano Lessons Work Best

A good piano teacher will:

  • Correct posture, hand position and technique early

  • Tailor lessons to your age and goals

  • Keep you motivated and accountable

  • Help you avoid bad habits that are hard to fix later

This is especially important for children, but adult beginners benefit just as much.

At Southport Music Lessons, lessons are structured but flexible, helping pupils enjoy learning while building strong foundations.

2. Learn Proper Technique from the Start

One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is focusing only on playing songs, without learning how to play correctly.

Good piano technique includes:

  • Correct hand shape

  • Relaxed shoulders and wrists

  • Proper finger movement

  • Efficient use of arm weight

Without guidance, many self-taught learners develop tension or poor habits that limit progress.

This is why the best way to learn piano always includes technique, not just note learning.

3. Use a Good Piano or Keyboard

Your instrument plays a huge role in how effectively you learn.

For beginners, I recommend:

  • 88 weighted keys

  • Touch sensitivity

  • A realistic piano sound

Learning piano on a poor-quality keyboard can make it harder to develop finger strength and control.

Trusted UK brands include:

4. Follow a Structured Learning Plan

Randomly learning songs might feel productive, but it often leads to uneven progress.

A structured piano learning plan should include:

  • Technical exercises

  • Reading music

  • Rhythm and timing

  • Pieces suited to your level

5. Practise Little and Often

One of the most important factors in piano learning is consistency.

Short, regular practice sessions are far more effective than long, irregular ones.

Recommended Practice Times

  • Children: 10–20 minutes, 4–6 times per week

  • Adults: 20–30 minutes, 5 times per week

The best way to learn piano is to make it a habit, not a chore.

6. Use Apps and Online Resources (As Support, Not Replacement)

Piano apps and YouTube tutorials can be helpful, but they work best as supplements.

Popular options include:

These tools can help with:

  • Sight reading

  • Extra practice

  • Motivation between lessons

However, they can’t correct posture, technique or tension — something only a teacher can do.

7. Learn to Read Music (Don’t Skip This)

Many beginners try to avoid reading music, but this limits long-term progress.

Reading music helps you:

  • Learn new pieces independently

  • Understand rhythm and timing

  • Play a wider range of music

Even if your goal is pop or contemporary music, basic music reading is a vital skill.

8. Play Music You Enjoy

Enjoyment is key to long-term success.

A good piano teacher will balance:

  • Technical development

  • Exam or syllabus work (if desired)

  • Music you actually want to play

Whether it’s classical, pop, film music or simple arrangements, enjoyment keeps motivation high.

9. Be Patient with Progress

Piano is a long-term skill, and progress isn’t always linear.

Most beginners:

  • Make steady progress in the first few months

  • Hit plateaus

  • Then experience breakthroughs

This is normal. The best way to learn piano is to trust the process and stay consistent.

10. Learn in a Supportive Environment

Learning piano should feel encouraging, not intimidating.

At Southport Music Lessons, lessons are:

  • Friendly and supportive

  • Suitable for children and adults

  • Focused on confidence as well as skill

A positive learning environment makes a huge difference.

The Best Way to Learn Piano – Summary

To recap, the best way to learn piano is to:

  • Take lessons with a qualified teacher

  • Use a good-quality keyboard or digital piano

  • Follow a structured learning plan

  • Practise regularly

  • Use apps as support, not substitutes

  • Learn music you enjoy

There’s no shortcut — but there is a clear, effective path.

Book Your Free First Piano Lesson

If you’re ready to start learning, the best place to begin is with expert guidance.

At Southport Music Lessons, I offer:

  • Free 15-minute introductory piano lessons

  • Lessons for children and adults

  • Clear, friendly teaching with no pressure

  • Help choosing the right instrument and practice plan

Book your free first piano lesson today and discover the best way to learn piano with confidence and enjoyment.

Louise Black
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