Here’s how to become a happy and successful pianist:
Ignore rules, but embrace principles
Don’t say “sorry” when you make a mistake (smile instead)
Practice because it’s fun, not merely to improve (you’ll improve anyway, I promise)
Trust your talent
Ride the groove
Find a teacher who can take you where you want to go, musically
Study music, not just the piano
Notice the connections between musical genres
Don’t let your way of thinking about music limit you
Be opinionated
Don’t be opinionated
Immerse yourself deeply in the music of your favorite musician (then let it go)
Love what you can play, while also expanding your capabilities
Listen more deeply
Find the right “door” for you, personally (and it’s probably not what the internet is telling you)
Imagine how you’d like to play a year from now, then find a path forward
Enjoy the journey
Let the music flow
Ron
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