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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

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Original poster

to want to start learning a musical instrument as an adult??

18 replies

thinkingwhattodotoday · 09/10/2011 21:03

has anyone done this? how did it go - in terms of finding a teacher, time to get through the grades etc? I am thinking of piano.
I started as a child but never got beyond grade 1.
I was going to encourage dc but then thought why not just learn myself. then if they like the look of it they can take it up too.

OP posts:

Laquitar · 09/10/2011 21:06

YANBU at all. I like your way of thinking.

Tyr · 09/10/2011 21:09

Go for it but choose an instrument that will allow you to play the music you enjoy listening to.

Original poster

thinkingwhattodotoday · 09/10/2011 21:11

thank you for encouragement! I want to play the piano as I have one already. is it slower to learn as a adult though? I just don't know anyone who has done this. also will teachers take on adults??

OP posts:

puglet123 · 09/10/2011 21:11

I think you should go for it - I teach a couple of adults piano and they are doing really well. I think it's a great idea that you learn something for you!! Best of luck.

Tchootnika · 09/10/2011 21:12

I think it sounds really good, too.
Let us know how it goes

SouthernandCross · 09/10/2011 21:15

I did my grade 2 piano exam as a child and mucked around a bit over the years. When my eldest started learning the piano a couple of years ago, I took lessons too! I did my grade 5 practical last year and am now working my way up the theory grades so I can sit my grade 6 practical some time. I don't know why, except for the pure joy of playing some lovely music and being to keep up with the DCs!
Go for it. I practice about 20 mins a day atm but this goes up to 1 hour a day when an exam is looming.
Are there any music shops near you? If so, give them a ring and ask if they know of any teachers who take on adult pupils. I would suggest you find a teacher who is used to teaching adults as if they are not, you might find it all a bit tedious.

KatyMac · 09/10/2011 21:15

Maybe I should do this instead of my OU course this autumn

My Nana started her piano lessons at about 65 & she did fine

FutureNannyOgg · 09/10/2011 21:15

Do it, I took up harp in my mid 20s, it was a brilliant decision.

Ask around or check local ads in papers or music shop for a teacher.

And don't forget to practice.

Laquitar · 09/10/2011 21:16

Yes of course they take adults.

I think it is a fab example to your dcs aswell.

scruffybird · 09/10/2011 21:17

Go for it! I learnt to play the violin in my thirties (not that well). Took DD with me for the first few lessons and then she dropped out and I kept going. Used to go one evening a week. Just phone a teacher who teaches children and I'm sure they will teach you.

mamalovesmojitos · 09/10/2011 21:19

YADNBU life is for living! playing an instrument rocks. Best of luck.

Dozer · 09/10/2011 21:19

Go for it, if you have at least 3 hours a week or so to spare (for lessons and a few practices), not worth spending on lessons if no time to practice.

grumpybat · 09/10/2011 21:20

Do it! I teach quite a few adults and they do really seem to enjoy it. Try and remember that you're allowed to not understand though, it really is learning something new and it takes a while!

DogsBeastFiend · 09/10/2011 21:22

Go for it! Footballer Tony Adams managed it so why can't you? Good luck and, most importantly, enjoy. :)

tallwivghoulies · 09/10/2011 21:26

Do it definitely. I've just got a piano off freecycle. I haven't played for 35 years. I'm hoping it's a bit like riding a bike...building up courage to try the ukelele though as well...

Making your own music, bringing children up around live music - you can't beat it!

Rivenwithoutabingle · 09/10/2011 21:28

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

reallytired · 09/10/2011 22:08

I have been using Youtube to learn guitar. I don't think anyone is too old to learn.

A1980 · 09/10/2011 22:11

I would but make sure you find the right teacher.

I tried to take up the violin and got a teacher who only taught children. Using books designed for 4 year old was a bit crap. I got frustrated quite quickly as lessons are (very) expensive and i found it hard to practice as violins go out of tune and I couldn't tune the bloody thing myself.

Wish I'd taken the flute or something. Easier to practice yourself and tuning not required.

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