Learning piano as an adult can feel daunting. You see kids tickling the ivories with ease, while you’re just trying to find middle C. A good piano book can make all the difference. It’s about finding something that matches your learning style and keeps you motivated. I’ve been there, struggling with confusing instructions and boring exercises. So, I’ve put together a list of books that I think are great for adult beginners, based on my own experience and what I’ve heard from other learners. These books focus on making learning fun and accessible, without dumbing things down.
Product Overview
Here’s a quick look at the books we’ll be reviewing:
- Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course: Comprehensive, step-by-step approach.
- Hal Leonard Adult Piano Method: Focuses on popular songs and chords.
- Piano for Dummies: Easy-to-understand explanations and exercises.
- Faber Adult Piano Adventures: Combines theory, technique, and enjoyable music.
- The Complete Adult Piano Player: Emphasizes playing songs quickly.
Top 5 Best Piano Books for Adult Beginners
1. Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course
Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course is a classic for a reason. It’s a thorough, well-structured method that starts with the very basics of reading music and playing simple melodies. It progresses gradually, building your skills in a logical way. I appreciate how it covers both technique and music theory without feeling overwhelming. It’s the kind of book that will give you a solid foundation.
Pros:
- ✅ Comprehensive and covers all the fundamentals.
- ✅ Clear, step-by-step instructions.
- ✅ Includes a wide variety of musical styles.
Cons:
- ❌ Can feel a bit slow-paced for some learners.
- ❌ The song selections may not appeal to everyone.
- ❌ Requires dedication and consistent practice.
Verdict: This is a great choice if you want a thorough and structured approach to learning piano. It’s ideal for those who prefer a traditional learning style and are willing to commit to regular practice.
2. Hal Leonard Adult Piano Method
If you’re eager to play recognizable songs right away, the Hal Leonard Adult Piano Method might be your best bet. This book focuses on teaching you chords and rhythms using popular music. You’ll be playing simplified versions of familiar tunes in no time. It’s less focused on traditional music theory and more on practical application, which can be very motivating. I remember being so excited when I could finally play a simplified version of “Let It Be” using this method.
Pros:
- ✅ Focuses on playing popular songs quickly.
- ✅ Emphasizes chords and rhythms.
- ✅ Includes online audio and video resources.
Cons:
- ❌ May not cover music theory as deeply as other methods.
- ❌ Relies on simplified versions of songs.
- ❌ Can be less effective if you want a strong foundation in classical music.
Verdict: This is a great option if you’re primarily interested in playing popular music and want to see quick results. It’s less about becoming a concert pianist and more about enjoying playing songs you know and love.
3. Piano for Dummies
The “For Dummies” series is known for its clear and accessible explanations, and Piano for Dummies is no exception. This book breaks down complex concepts into easy-to-understand language. It’s perfect if you’re completely new to music and want a friendly, non-intimidating guide. I found it helpful when I was first starting out because it explained things in a way that made sense to me. The diagrams and illustrations are also very useful.
Pros:
- ✅ Very beginner-friendly and easy to understand.
- ✅ Covers a wide range of topics, from music theory to technique.
- ✅ Includes helpful diagrams and illustrations.
Cons:
- ❌ May be too basic for some learners.
- ❌ Lacks the depth of more comprehensive methods.
- ❌ The song selections are somewhat limited.
Verdict: This is an excellent choice for absolute beginners who want a gentle introduction to the world of piano playing. It’s a great starting point before moving on to more advanced methods.
4. Faber Adult Piano Adventures
Faber Adult Piano Adventures takes a balanced approach to learning piano. It combines theory, technique, and enjoyable music in a way that keeps you engaged. The book is beautifully designed and features a variety of appealing pieces. It’s a good choice if you want a well-rounded curriculum that doesn’t feel like a chore. The accompanying audio tracks are also a nice bonus.
Pros:
- ✅ Balanced approach to theory, technique, and repertoire.
- ✅ Well-designed and visually appealing.
- ✅ Includes a variety of musical styles.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than other methods.
- ❌ May require some prior musical knowledge.
- ❌ Not as focused on popular music as the Hal Leonard method.
Verdict: This is a great option if you’re looking for a comprehensive and engaging piano method that combines learning with enjoyment. It’s suitable for adults who are serious about learning but also want to have fun.
5. The Complete Adult Piano Player
The Complete Adult Piano Player focuses on getting you playing songs as quickly as possible. It uses a chord-based approach and simplified arrangements to make learning accessible and rewarding. If your main goal is to be able to play your favorite songs, this book can help you achieve that quickly. It’s less concerned with perfect technique and more about enjoying the process of making music. I know someone who learned to play dozens of songs using this book in just a few months.
Pros:
- ✅ Emphasizes playing songs quickly.
- ✅ Chord-based approach is easy to learn.
- ✅ Includes a large selection of popular songs.
Cons:
- ❌ May not develop strong sight-reading skills.
- ❌ Focuses on simplified arrangements.
- ❌ Not ideal if you want to pursue classical piano.
Verdict: This is a good choice if you’re primarily interested in playing popular songs and want to see rapid progress. It’s less about mastering piano technique and more about having fun playing music.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right piano book can be tough. Here are a few things to consider:
- Your learning style: Do you prefer a structured, step-by-step approach or a more flexible, song-based method?
- Your musical goals: Are you interested in playing classical music, popular songs, or a mix of both?
- Your budget: Piano books range in price, so consider how much you’re willing to spend.
- Online resources: Does the book include audio or video lessons to supplement the written material?
- Reviews: Read reviews from other adult beginners to get an idea of what to expect.
Also, don’t be afraid to try out a few different books to see what works best for you. What works for one person may not work for another. The most important thing is to find a book that keeps you motivated and engaged.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about learning piano as an adult:
-
Q: Is it too late to learn piano as an adult?
A: Absolutely not! It might take more time and effort than learning as a child, but it’s definitely possible.
-
Q: How much practice is needed?
A: Aim for at least 30 minutes of practice several times a week. Consistency is key.
-
Q: Do I need a piano teacher?
A: While a teacher can be helpful, it’s possible to learn piano on your own using books and online resources. A teacher can provide personalized feedback and guidance, but it’s not essential.
-
Q: What if I don’t have a piano?
A: A digital keyboard is a great alternative to an acoustic piano, especially for beginners. Look for one with weighted keys for a more realistic playing experience.
Conclusion
Learning piano as an adult is a rewarding experience. With the right book and a little dedication, you can achieve your musical goals. Each of the books reviewed here offers a unique approach, so choose the one that best suits your learning style and preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you, and most importantly, have fun!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
