Seven tips for learning music as an adult

You may be wondering what motivated my choice regarding the number of tips for learning music as an adult.

Perhaps simply because the number seven holds a certain symbolism on its own.

For example, the 7 days of the week reflect the different phases of life, including professional activity, eating, maintaining a certain lifestyle, time for leisure and other passions, and inevitably, the time for rest needed to recharge your batteries.

From a more esoteric point of view, the number 7 is also associated with the mind, knowledge, analysis, and truth.

It symbolises introspection and the spiritual quest. With these few statements, we finally get to the heart of the matter.

Could the choice to learn music be motivated by all of this?

I don’t doubt it for a second, as at our age, it’s often a time for reflection, major changes, transitions, and sometimes even radical life choices.

The lives of composers, as we see from existing biographies, are marked by a wealth of inspiring experiences and reflect our own life journeys on the path of initiation — a term often used and widely heard in our early years when talking about learning... "musical initiation."

1st Tip

It is important to first ask yourself: "What motivates my decision to learn music and play an instrument?"

We are caught in a relentless spiral of activities that are more or less energy-consuming, and we often just endure it all.

It's a simple observation. Music appeals to different motivations, especially if we wish to embark on the journey.

This choice is not passive; it can still be planned during your free time dedicated to leisure activities.

It will engage your personal choice, your reflection, and your intellect. Isn't that alone reason enough to learn and play an instrument?

In a time when we are often passive, and not necessarily by choice, an opportunity presents itself to us.

2nd Tip

In a previous article, I believe I emphasised the concept of enjoyment.

Yes, perhaps the foundation of the Epicurean philosophy has something to do with it. Carpe Diem, our life journeys sometimes lead us to great changes.

Sooner or later, we all face difficult times and major upheavals, and at some point, we decide to take control of our lives.

Music brings us real joy, and everyone identifies with a style of music that is their own.

You will therefore seek an instrument that speaks to you, sometimes because you played it as a child and life’s circumstances led you to abandon it... how often I hear these regrets from former musicians at concerts.

3rd Tip

We come to a crucial stage in your choices. Let’s assume you have the motivation to enter the sacred world of music; now it's about being guided towards the right instrument.

A sometimes difficult choice, reminiscent for some of the decisions made in various music schools when there was a lack of space in certain instrument classes.

As a result, children are often encouraged to learn an instrument different from their first choice. In our current case, we present to you various teachers and a range of instrumental disciplines.

It would be reasonable to recognise that the first steps can be quicker depending on the instrument.

For example, the piano produces the note simply by pressing the keys. With string instruments, you create the sound by using the bow on the strings and your left hand to form the notes. For the guitar, both hands are used independently. As for wind instruments, the primary challenge lies in producing the sound, as the eminent Dutch cellist once said Anner Bylsma, the breath and focus on a mouthpiece or reed.

It is important to choose the right direction.

4th Tip

It is important to know that the level of progress in learning is highly subjective. We are not all the same, so do not get discouraged.

This echoes the earlier point about choosing instruments: the early stages can be quicker or slower depending on each person's abilities. Having a good ear is essential for any instrument, and it can be trained. Adults who played an instrument in childhood will likely have an advantage, as they are not starting from scratch, but it’s never too late to begin.

5th Tip

The demand for personal effort will remain essential, and it is by no means incompatible with the idea of enjoyment that we have already discussed.

What could be more rewarding than being able to play a piece that originally motivated your choice of instrument?

That is the reward; the teacher will do their utmost to bring you as close as possible to your expectations during the learning process.

The consistency of your practice will undoubtedly allow you to achieve the dual goals of both teacher and student.

6th Tip

We are only just beginning to address disability in many sectors, but it should not become a barrier when choosing to play an instrument.

I will give you an example that touches me personally: people suffering from arthritis experience a sort of revival, as the mechanical exercise helps slow down joint stiffness.

Playing an instrument is therefore beneficial.

What can also be said about the benefits music brings to immunocompromised individuals and others going through difficult times? Focusing on a practise goal can be truly healing.

7th Tip

This tip is simply the concluding truth: it is never too late. We know that, unlike a child, an adult is better able to engage in discussion and exchange with the teacher.

Be aware that every teacher constantly reflects on their methods and adapts to the person in front of them. We do not teach in the same way to everyone, as it depends on each individual’s reactions, abilities, and questions.

One thing is certain: set your own goals and discuss them with your teacher.

Understanding and communication are at the heart of the teacher-student relationship.