Finding a first piano class for a beginner

A first term of piano should end with a child who can find middle C without looking and play a short piece with both hands. A sight-reading certificate isn't the goal. Everything else is detail.

The quick answer

• A group class is a fine start for most children aged six to ten, and usually costs less.
• A keyboard at home is enough for the first year. A full-size, touch-sensitive one is worth the difference.
• Look for a class that says what the term covers, and keep it if your child is still practicing in week six.

Group or one to one?

Group lessons are more social and less intense, and children often practice more because they don't want to be the one who didn't. One-to-one lessons move faster and suit a child who is shy in groups or already reading music. Neither is better for a beginner in general. Your child decides it.

What a good first term covers

• Finding notes on the keyboard, and middle C without looking
• Steady rhythm, counted out loud
• Reading simple notes in one position
• A first piece with both hands, played for someone at home

If a class page lists something like this under what you'll learn, the teacher has planned the term. That's a good sign.

Practice, without the arguments

Ten minutes a day beats an hour on Saturday. On Befundo you can add a routine, "Piano, 10 minutes", for your child and tick each day off. You'll see the run building up, and you won't need to nag.

Find a piano class

On Find classes, choose Music and search for piano. Pick in person or online, set your city, and read the class page for what the term covers before you register.