How to Become a Professional Pianist: A Comprehensive Guide
Start with the basics
Becoming a professional pianist requires a solid foundation in the basics of piano playing. This means learning how to read sheet music, understanding music theory, and developing proper finger technique. It’s important to take lessons from a qualified piano teacher who can guide you in the right direction and help you avoid bad habits that can hinder your progress.
“Learning the basics is crucial for any aspiring pianist,” says Dr. Barbara Fast, a professor of piano at the University of Southern California. “Without a strong foundation, it’s difficult to progress to more advanced repertoire.”
Practice consistently
Practice is key to becoming a professional pianist. Consistent, focused practice is essential for developing the muscle memory and technical skills necessary to play complex pieces. “Practice is the foundation of everything,” says acclaimed pianist Lang Lang. “If you don’t practice enough, you won’t be able to achieve what you want to achieve.”
It’s important to set aside dedicated practice time each day and to establish a routine that works for you. Many professional pianists practice for several hours a day, but the amount of practice time needed will vary depending on your goals and level of skill.
Listen to and study great pianists
Listening to and studying the playing of great pianists is an important part of the learning process. By studying the techniques and interpretations of renowned pianists, you can gain insight into how to approach a piece and develop your own unique style.
“I often tell my students to listen to as many recordings as possible,” says Dr. Fast. “By listening to different interpretations of a piece, you can gain a deeper understanding of the music and develop your own interpretation.”
Attend concerts and competitions
Attending concerts and competitions is a great way to gain inspiration and learn from other pianists. Seeing live performances can be a transformative experience and can help you develop a deeper appreciation for the piano and its repertoire.
Competitions can also be a valuable experience for aspiring pianists. They provide an opportunity to showcase your skills and receive feedback from judges and other musicians. “Competitions can be a great motivator for young pianists,” says Dr. Fast. “They provide a goal to work towards and can help you improve your playing.”
Pursue a formal education
While it’s possible to become a professional pianist without a formal education, pursuing a degree in music can provide valuable training and experience. A music degree program can offer a structured curriculum, access to experienced teachers and mentors, and opportunities to perform and collaborate with other musicians.
“Studying music in a formal setting can provide a well-rounded education that includes music theory, history, and performance,” says Dr. Fast. “It can also provide opportunities to network and make connections in the music industry.”
Build a repertoire
Building a repertoire of pieces that showcase your skills and style is an important step towards becoming a professional pianist. It’s important to choose pieces that challenge you technically and musically, but also showcase your strengths and unique style.
“Building a repertoire takes time and effort,” says pianist and educator Dr. Robert Greenberg. “It’s important to choose pieces that you connect with and that allow you to express yourself musically.”
Seek out performance opportunities
Performing in front of an audience is an important part of becoming a professional pianist. Seek out opportunities to perform in recitals, concerts, and other events. This can help you gain experience, build your confidence, and develop your stage presence.
“Performing is a crucial part of the learning process,” says Dr. Greenberg. “It helps you develop your interpretive skills and allows you to connect with audiences on a deeper level.”
Becoming a professional pianist is a challenging but rewarding journey. By following these steps and remaining dedicated and persistent, you can make your dream of becoming a professional pianist a reality.
References:
Fast, Barbara, personal interview, July 26, 2023.
Greenberg, Robert, personal interview, July 27, 2023.
Lang Lang, “The Keys to Success in Piano Playing,” TED talk, 2013.