I think we all know at least one adult who studied piano at some point in his or her childhood and eventually quit.  They usually regret it, so why did they quit in the first place?

Barring a genuine lack of interest or other external factors, the usual reason is a combination of boredom and a perception that playing an instrument is an insurmountably difficult task.  And nine times out of ten, I would posit that this is the fault of the teacher, who imposes a world of rules and regulations upon the student, completely losing sight of the fact that making music is meant to be a pleasurable endeavour. 

Make no mistake, the minutiae of piano-playing are very important, and there is no way to gain a solid grounding in the fundamentals of playing but by practice.  That being said, it is essential never to forget that initial auditory joy that draws each of us to the instrument and to remain connected to it.

Having spent so many years in universities and conservatories, I know that seasoned pianists experience this ennui as well.  I’ve seen it happen to my friends and colleagues, and it has even happened to me.  Learn this piece by that deadline, don’t pedal here, accent more there…  Making music often gets reduced to a series of tasks or mechanical procedures, when it must be a creative, spiritual, and intimate act.

I try to bear this in mind at all times with my teaching.  We will all have frustrations and difficulties to deal with along our path, but even in the midst of them, it is important not to lose sight of what drew us to music in the first place.  As teachers, it is our responsibility to keep this front and centre for our students.  As students, it is your right to let us know when that goal may seem out of focus.  Don’t quit and become the adult who regrets having done so.  If you are frustrated with a particular piece or skill, and you find yourself losing motivation to tackle it, step away from it for a while.  Instead, play something you already know well, which will not pose any thorny difficulties, and that gives you pleasure.  Re-connect with that basic, sensual joy of playing and making music, and revel in the act of creating something beautiful. 

That is, after all, the point of learning to play.