One year of piano progress (as a 40-year-old beginner)

So I spent a year learning to play the piano. This video - the result of probably about 350-400 hours of practice - doesn't even come close to some of the one-year progress videos out there, but I'm putting it up here as a record of my progress, and hopefully to inspire someone else to take a leap into starting something they've always wanted to do.
I messed around with a bunch of different songs that I couldn't include in this video, and I'm planning to continue tweaking everything I worked on - as you can probably hear, my tempo and dynamics need work even on the stuff I can 'play'. I used a bunch of resources, but some of the most useful were:
Jane's Piano (KZbin channel)
Andrew Furmanczyk (KZbin channel)
Alfred's Basic Level 1 (amzn.to/3KG6WOI)
My keyboard is a Roland FP10: amzn.to/3ejmeg7
(Disclaimer: These are affiliate links, I'll a commission if you buy the book or piano from them. No extra charges are made to you. Thank you!)
I practised scales pretty much every day that I sat at the piano for at least the first eight months, and added in arpeggios and chord inversions after that. I also started reading music from my first day, although I didn't practice that as much as I should have - planning much more of it over the next year. If you've got any more questions about technique/songs I learned, etc, please hit me up in the comments - and please subscribe to see future piano projects!

[@JoelSnape1]

If you're thinking about starting something - piano! guitar! BJJ! - you might like my weekly newsletter, where I share more insights on starting things, learning, and getting stuff done. Check it out here: joelsnape.substack.com/subscribe

[@BrodyStag]

Trust in Jesus y’all he is the only way. Trust that he died for our sins on the cross!!!

[@Amirakadka]

Hello! I have a couple of questions, How many hours a day did you practice for, do you have any advice on how to learn faster and read music sheets? And what keyboard were you using on day 365 it sounds amazing!

[@ChronoSquare]

Did you play any other instruments before learning the piano? I still to this day have dreams where I flash back to high school and I'm trying to play (bass) clarinet but I'm missing my mouth piece or I have no reeds. I tried to learn the bassoon one summer, but dang it was too hard! I mean the normal register is easy enough if you can get the double reed action working, but the upper register my god that's tricky.

[@icecreamman7480]

What software, books or apps do you recommend to start learning?.. I’m 42yo myself and interested in learning

[@user-jj1bp3es3j]

At 40 I was still trying both but did not take them far enough...

[@chrisrojas3561]

Now imagine how quickly a one year old can learn this with 40 pianos.

[@JoelSnape1]

I tried to think of a funny reply to this, but it kind of broke my brain.

[@jonm7272]

😂😂😂

[@subhi222]

@@JoelSnape1 😂😂😂

[@RAFAELFALA]

Project managers think exactly like that

[@imkorona6592]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@selftrue670]

For those of you who feel you might be too old: I am 67 years old. I've played piano all my life but I remained at the same skill level for decades. Just about a year ago, I answered a Craigslist ad from some guys in my area wanting to put a band together. It's not like me to do that, but for some reason, I took a chance. Now I'm playing in three bands and all that playing has really upped my game. At 67. If I can do it, you can do it. The challenge is both fun and personally rewarding. Don't say or think you can't. Because you can.

[@Allexxios]

This sounds really inspiring. Pablo Casals was asked once:”why are you still practicing in your 90’s” and he answered: “because I think I’m getting better!”

[@ha1ban3]

based

[@beanseason6515]

I've been discouraged trying to write and publish my first novel in my mid thirties, but stories like this keep me motivated. Toni Morrison published her first novel at 40. I suppose anything's possible.

[@TeLeKiNeSiS360]

I needed this. Thank you, kind soul!

[@selftrue670]

@@TeLeKiNeSiS360 Three bits of advice: 1) never compare your skill level to anyone else; those better than you had to come through your level. 2) learn to play for the joy of music-not for any other reason; playing for fame and fortune yields far less satisfaction. 3) Play as often as possible and don't expect to be perfect. You'll learn more quickly by hearing and correcting your mistakes and misses.

[@treestand5870]

As someone who's 24 with no musical experience and is starting the process of learning, this has given me so much inspiration!❣️

[@TylerLarew]

25 here and am in the same boat. I was going to pursue piano back in middle school and to be honest I have no idea what ended up stopping me. Never too late though!

[@saranunes6303]

26 and same here. Just ordered my piano from amazon 😅 we can do this!

[@bewareogre]

27 and I might finally do it as well...

[@user-vz1wk1oi4s]

im planning on learning the oud instrument turkish

[@johnman515]

@@saranunes6303if you don’t mind me asking, which one did you buy from Amazon? I’m also looking into learning how to play!

[@markthompson1796]

I'm almost 42 and I just started yesterday. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@ernestp.worrell8871]

Cool I’m 41 and I want to start day 1

[@tire26]

40 and same!

[@ezequiasfernandez]

hi Mark. Just checking up on you. How is your learning going? I'm 24 and want to buy a piano but a bit discouraged because people tell me it takes a very long time to be any good. Any advice on how to start and what helped you get better?

[@markthompson1796]

@@ezequiasfernandez It's going good. My goal is to play 15 minutes a day. 15 minutes is realistic and attainable for me and I suggest you set goals that are realistic and attainable for you personally. Pianote on KZbin has some excellent beginner videos to get you started and it should be easy to find a cheap used keyboard either online or at a second hand shop. If you're still practicing after 6 months then upgrade to something that sounds better. Yes, it takes a while to get good but so does everything in life. You get out what you put in. Have patience with yourself and aim for tiny tiny improvements each day. You can do anything you put your mind to!

[@jacobfunnell65]

So happy to find a real vid, and nice to see where genuine work can get you. People don't realize the fake "Grade 7 after a year" vids are just demoralizing for others!

[@DanielLearnsPiano]

I discuss this exact thing in my recent 1 year progress video. There is plenty of real progress out there but it’s nowhere near as viral.

[@adamglen635]

The complete Fur Elise is grade 7, so this vid is not far off being fake. If this was fake, it would probably have better sound quality.

[@iuliansatnoianu6991]

You are right, and I agree with you. Though I am not sure why it has such a demoralising effect, even if you know it's fake.

[@hoosas5998]

@@adamglen635 the entirety of fur Elise is an intermediate level, at around a grade level of 4 to 5.

[@dhruvsawant9234]

@@hoosas5998 I don't really get the 1-8 grading system that people use at all. People are obviously not talking about ABRSM/Trinity grades, as people classify some exceptionally difficult pieces as grade 8, when in the case of the aforementioned boards, they would be in one of the diploma levels. People aren't referring to the henle grading system either, as it goes up until 9. So where exactly has this weird and ever changing grading system come from?

[@ericthompson2593]

Well, my friend, I have to comment. I'm a professional pianist, masters degree in performance, and I am very impressed with what you've done in one year. I've been teaching all ages and levels since around 1995, and what you've just demonstrated is on the high end for such a short time of study. Good for you, my friend. Keep it up!

[@cranberryeater7459]

I have lumberjack fingers. Wish my fingers were long and slender :(

[@totallyfrozen]

@@cranberryeater7459 It doesn’t take long, slender fingers or any special physical attributes to play piano. It takes proper technique. Any experienced piano teacher worth their fee can teach you how to play whether you have 12” long spider leg fingers or fat stubs. It’s posture and technique. If you want to learn it, you can do it. Don’t doubt yourself. Just put yourself in the hands of a capable teacher and apply yourself to it. 👍🏻

[@alessandrorossi1294]

Well, this is about an hour a day of study, actually a tad more to hit 400 hours in a year.

[@JoelSnape1]

Very kind of you to say, Eric. Thanks very much!

[@sedroycover5325]

congrats I was inspired by your dedication, i'm playing piano for 10yrs but not classical music. I tried to play some pieces of chopin and beethoven damn it so hard. that's why im so impressed of those pianist who played classical music. 👍👍👍

[@carpark1414]

Seasoned pianist here and your progress in 1 year is remarkable. Perhaps you have the tenacity at 40. When I was learning as a 5-10 year old I couldn't care less about the piano and just counted the seconds until I could just end the lesson and get out of there. I think the mindset plays a pivotal role in how quickly your brain can soak it up. A very strong affective filter, if you will. You really wanted to learn and you put your heart and soul into it. Fantastic job.

[@Zoomrail]

I'm 13 and have too much motivation that it's the only thing I think about that isn't running out it's been almost 2 weeks and I can sight read most grade 1 sheet music

[@darryld1487]

Youth is wasted on the young.

[@sobeit1927]

@@Zoomrail”almost 2 weeks and reading grade 1 sheet music “ . You have no idea how useless you make me feel . Well done. Anyhow , sort of !

[@sajjanrajvaidya]

That is fantastic. This makes my heart happy. Good on you, mate!

[@JoelSnape1]

Thanks for saying this! Comments like this mean a lot.

[@juser-abuser]

Usually these kinds of videos are fake or not quite true.

[@agcandkrc]

This is what KZbin should always have been about! So inspiring. Great job!

[@DodoToutDoux]

Exactly ❤️❤️❤️

[@CB-rv2lj]

didn't seem to turn out that way did it.

[@TechniqueSan]

Shhhh, you WILL get political propaganda and corporate shilling down your throat and you WILL like it. - KZbin

[@fredgarvin716]

@@CB-rv2lj KZbin is what you make it by what decide to watch.

[@CB-rv2lj]

@@fredgarvin716 yeah man I know how the search function works, thanks.

[@ilovepianomagic]

As a piano teacher, I am super impressed by your ability to improv in such a small amount of time!!

[@JoelSnape1]

Oh that's super kind, thank you!

[@SacWebDeveloper]

This statement is discouraging, but OP's video is encouraging since I'm 33 and just started learning piano yesterday with a small amount of prior musical experience (basic chords in a HS rock band). I plan to dedicate 30mins to 1 hour a day. I plan to get really good at sight reading and constantly trying new pieces instead of sticking to the same old tunes.

[@povman64]

@@SacWebDeveloper sight reading is valuable but so is getting a single piece to absolute perfection!

[@raefsengupta]

@@SacWebDeveloper hey, glad you are excited about learning the piano! i am also a piano teacher and wanted to say that learning tunes to their fullest allows improvements in piano playing that won't happen from sight-reading. ideally, always be getting some tune up to "yea that's pretty good" zone (maybe like 80-90%). that said, do whatever works for you, i just have seen students get into cycles of sight-reading and continually dropping songs that are only at 40% and there are fundamental skills they just never ever work on because you only tend to work on those once pieces are already at the 40% level. one example: if you only have time to learn the notes of the piece accurately in succession, are you going to ever have enough time afterwards to practice rhythm? anyway, learning piano is exciting! and feel free to dm me (do they have that on youtube?) or comment or something if you want to talk more

[@nishatchotu]

@@raefsengupta Hi sir i am from a small district of rajasthan india in my city there is no piano teacher but i want to learn piano how can i learn i have yamaha psr-340 keyboard

[@srs083]

I am a 40 yr old female - Learning the Keyboard as well. 6 classes done. This encourages me so much. Will keep practicing. Thank you so much for this video. ❤😊❤

[@JamesIVmusic]

I'm a full time piano teacher and I applaud you! I wish all of my students had the same drive as you. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@davidc9396]

What impressed me the most was not the playing, but this man's perfect posture! I bet his back never gets sore!

[@connorjackson2973]

bro i didnt notice until i read this 🤣

[@kareandersson]

There are many great pianists. Hard to compete. Saving the back does indeed lessen the costs. Hard if you are tall, though

[@liveagaincoachingministry1319]

I noticed throughout the video that his posture got straighter and straighter!!

[@99catsin6bags]

Get into power lifting. Even if you don't lift heavy your posture will improve a lot with core strength.

[@billo.9324]

This comment made me sit-up straight. hahaha Thanks

[@slandshark]

I'm 40, just started learning the piano 2 weeks ago. I'm finding extreme satisfaction with just simple milestones and reading half of the easiest songs of all time. :) It was my 6 year old daughter who inspired me. She came to me 2 weeks ago and had written notes on a piece of paper on sheet music shew drew from scratch. She asked me what it would sound like. She has never played an instrument before. That exact moment I dropped everything and immediately looked up an app to help her learn while we are at home. 2 weeks later, we are both playing every day and she's actually ahead of me in the lessons. The rest of my family (my Wife, me and our 3 daughters, oldest is 9) also started practicing as well all at the same time. The piano is bringing insane amounts of joy to my life and to my family!

[@ajayreddy8732]

Beautiful story

[@Talia.777]

Keep going 😊😊👍

[@-siranzalot-]

This sounds perfect. Keep having fun you guys! :)

[@sounds6365]

You made me cry. Hahaha. Really. That’s good.

[@psykloz]

Your story brought me so much joy! Thank you for sharing. 🥰

[@luisnabais]

I’m 41 and very much a beginner. I had the wish for many years to learn (I had lessons as a small kid but don’t remember anything). My wife just got me a beginner keyboard, I’ll try to learn as a hobby and long time dream. This is very inspiring.

[@AGL23]

You have no idea how inspiring this is! A lot of people begin to coast through life as they age. But examples like this is what makes life amazing. Stop coasting, and start living! ❤️

[@valerijajovanovic2020]

This man: no musical knowledge Also this man: *starts with Fur Elize*

[@JoelSnape1]

Haha to be fair it took me about six months to play the repetitive part properly and 12 to get through the whole thing. Still needs work to sound like I want it to, too.

[@valerijajovanovic2020]

@@JoelSnape1 That's fair, as far as I know it's usually taken up after 2-3 years of playing so you're doing great :)

[@renguillar6155]

@@JoelSnape1 Hi Joel, playing at 0:53 what is the title? Hoping you could share the title and link to music sheet, thanks and great work

[@renguillar6155]

Got it The Entertainer been looking for that thanks

[@JoelSnape1]

@@renguillar6155 SorryI thought I'd replied! This is a more basic version of the Entertainer from Alfred's Basic 1 - can't find it online sadly.

[@joebremer1722]

Oh my gosh! As someone who is in the process of learning piano and only ever sees people who have years of experience play, this is very inspiring and comforting. Thank you for putting this out.

[@JoelSnape1]

No problem, Joe. Best of luck with your progress.

[@pavlobrona]

Mentioning the Name of God in vain is a sin

[@breyanahfrancis9525]

@@pavlobrona gosh and God aren’t the same lol. you don’t pray to “gosh”, you pray to “God”. so with them using gosh, it isn’t a sin :)

[@pavlobrona]

@@breyanahfrancis9525 You don't have to use God's name in vain anyway. His name should only be used when we pray to Him.

[@CitizenMio]

@@pavlobrona Quite the sinner then by your own standards, you went out of your way to mention it twice and neither was in prayer. I'm only here for the extremely fast learning piano dude tho, so I'll run along now.

[@citrus_speaks]

It's refreshing to see someone who isn't perfect persevering in the face of mistakes and difficulty. That's what made this so inspirational to me. Thank you!

[@jimj2683]

Everyone who plays well has gone through the same mistakes. It is only a myth that child prodigies can play the piano with little training. They are all training hundreds of hours.

[@samkedwards2032]

I have played piano for over 20 years. Your progress is honestly very impressive, and is shown by your consistency and understanding the importance of nailing technique before speed. I often see adult learners or beginners playing better than people who’ve played as long as I have or longer, because they practice properly. You’re awesome!!

[@Gloortom]

How do you practice properly, pls?

[@samkedwards2032]

@@Gloortom making sure you are getting the correct posture, hand positions and techniques and developing fundamentals. Keep practicing basic stuff even as you get more advanced. Progressively learning harder pieces.

[@kawosdhdos]

​@@Gloortomslow with no mistakes. Quickly, allowing mistakes, or mindlessly is bad

[@LeonardoStoppa]

It is inspiring. I have 42 and I will learn it!

[@KarlaVS]

You can do it

[@faizareseena128]

Age is just a number....all the very best...

[@JoelSnape1]

Are you learning?

[@stellaartois303]

@@JoelSnape1 how did you learn? I just bought a piano. What's the first thing that I should do?

[@JoelSnape1]

@@stellaartois303 1. Find middle C 2. Learn (roughly) what the rest of the notes are 3. Try a C major scale 4. Learn Twinkle Twinkle Little Star 5. KEEP GOING

[@jigglybandito9505]

My favorite quote from my favorite “ to miss a note is insignificant, to play without passion is inexcusable “

[@adambernhardt5366]

If I see this comment on KZbin one more time, I'll actually lay an egg

[@jigglybandito9505]

@@adambernhardt5366 who cares

[@Bergerac82]

At least get it right “To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable”

[@teenanguyen217]

This is so much inspiration, you make me want to cry. Thankyou Joel for sharing this with us!

[@theofromzero544]

Starting my journey today. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@qwadratix]

I've been playing now for about 18 months and yeah, this looks about right. I'm rather older than most at 74 so maybe I'm a bit slower. I've had problems with the fact that I found it easier to memorize pieces at first than to read the music but after about the 4th piece (Anna Magdalena) I ran into the fact that you have to constantly reinforce the memory or it fades and there simply isn't time in the day to keep it up. Now I've started over, making an effort to deliberately avoid memorizing and just reading off the page. It's coming along. Progress feels slower but I don't have the problem of simply running out of disk space anymore. 🤣

[@JoelSnape1]

Starting in your 70s is genuinely inspiring stuff - I hope I'm still taking on new challenges if I make it to that age. And yes, I'd really like to be able to read well as well as memorise the pieces I love - the latter so I can play them without music, but the former so I can play simpler stuff just for fun. There's a lot to work on!

[@Tina-qp7py]

That's my problem. It's faster to play by ear instead of work at learning to read music. I compose my own songs so there is no sheet music but I really should learn to read. No patience.

[@lets.talkabout]

@@Tina-qp7py Yeah, I'm the same way. I have the practice of learning "just listening", you know. But I'd really like to learn the theory of it all. After that, we don't forget anymore.

[@vincentkwan8856]

This is exactly my problem! I don't want to memorize as much, I'd rather learn to read. How did you do it may I ask?

[@qwadratix]

@@vincentkwan8856 I picked a couple of pieces that I like (the two G minuets 114 and 115 from Anna Magdalena) and played them through consecutively start to finish from the music. No stopping, no repeats and no looking at my hands, over and over for about a year solid. 20-30 times a day at a guess. Now I can play both reasonably well off the page and without the music I simply can't. Good news is that it does transfer to other pieces. Reading generally seems slightly easier. It's not so much about individual notes as the repeated patterns and relationships.

[@risika]

I was listening to a podcast that said, “it’s important to live life by design rather than emotion. Basically, sticking to a routine is what allows us to be the healthiest version of ourselves (especially when you're fighting these demons ex. OCD for me). I’ve had to overhaul how I approach taking care of my brain (exercise, journaling, studying etc) by practising mediocre consistency. Now I try to put in consistent 50-60% effort into my habits - to make sure I do it I began recording it and posting it on YT. Historically I have a habit of going too hard, not being able to sustain the Herculean effort, giving up and hating myself. So now I’m trying to give a small, consistent mediocre effort everyday. And its crazy how it adds up. Finally i feel regulated enough to begin the journey of learning new hobbies - and I feel ready to be seen trying.

[@JoelSnape1]

Yes, this really resonates - sometimes you just have to keep it ticking over. There are days when I don't feel like doing ANYTHING, but the 10 minutes of...whatever...I get done by the end of the day always make me feel better. Hope it goes well for you.

[@joshjones718]

@@JoelSnape1 well around 1 hour a day isnt going to cut it. try 6 hours at a time, 3 times a week for a month. you will have tripled your progress.

[@awesomeglow]

@@JoelSnape1 @risika This sounds exactly like the book, Atomic Habits

[@backlashza]

I relate to the statement so much and practiced this and failed many times but being consistent and sticking with a routine absolutely works for me. Now I just need to get off my couch and start doing it..whatever that may be .

[@muratazaarzai]

U are so relatable.... Thanks for motivating

[@samuelbaggett5002]

As someone who's played since I was 6, this makes my heart so glad! Good progress and hard work - keep it up, and thanks for sharing!

[@donaldvoetberg2990]

I’ve been playing the piano for about 10 years now and I gotta say, you’ve made incredible progress for just one year. Keep up the good work!

[@xInfisphere]

I thought I was too old at 16. But I practiced synthesia on and off playing my fave songs and eventually got into music theory. Now I’m 26, and so happy I can express my emotional and mental experiences in a healthy way knowing something will come out sounding nice if I sit down and try anything 🙌

[@seanandreipico1751]

Hi you're beautiful. Nice work po.

[@JoelSnape1]

This is so great, thank you for the comment

[@allieberenice4559]

this is so encouraging because i’m 16 right now n i feel the same way, my big aspirations are at odds with my extremely low skill level haha

[@xInfisphere]

@@allieberenice4559 YOUVE GOT THIS ⚡️⚡️♥️♥️ focus on what fills you with joy, and you’ll want to learn more and more! 🌿💪☀️

[@totallyfrozen]

@@allieberenice4559 The entertainment media makes it look like 16 is too old to start-but it’s all a lie. You’re not even graduated from high school. Take it from someone old enough to be your dad, life is long and a lot will happen over the years. There’s still time to be a mega star if that’s what you pursue. But, remember…music is HUGE! Pop, Rock, and Rap are only 3 of DOZENS of musical genres. Blues, jazz, bluegrass, classical, folk (singer/songwriter), world, electronic, etc. etc. are all legit genres to explore.

[@dallysinghson5569]

Mate that is something to be really proud of, while many of us lounge around watching TV hours a day, you taught yourself a new skill and it's awesome to see the progress.

[@tithisings]

Pure dedication. So proud of you for coming this far! You've done what many don't have the mindset to do. Wishing you my best, friend!

[@jls4382]

Thank-you for posting this! Its so encouraging!

[@rogerandrews1492]

I see that you put the practice time in. I started at 70 and having lots of spare time really helps. You are definitely being rewarded for your effort. Well done.

[@JoelSnape1]

I definitely did! Thanks Roger, I hope your practice goes well - and hope I'm still learning at 70!

[@franciscofarias6385]

Dude, thanks for this! I'm 26 and sometimes I feel I'm getting too old to learn new skills, but seeing you rocking at 40 made me realize this is bullshit and I should stop looking for excuses. Also, you're looking good!

[@rosalynrendon4785]

Francisco always continue to learn as you age. That is one of the beauties of getting older. Every year you should learn or do something new that grows your brain or challenges you to grow in some fashion. We have a daughter your age. 😊 okay, go learn something 👍

[@jackcraven7979]

I've been learning alto sax at 25 self taught 1 yr so far

[@Bianca-333]

It's never too late to learn something new. Teaching myself guitar on KZbin University! Do ALL the things your heart calls for!

[@ewy4010]

bruh, I feel the same. I'm 28 and my first piano is being delivered tomorrow

[@kaydens6964]

I’ve always been a fast learner, it only gets faster as I age since learning has never been easier with all the information we have access now.

[@user-dc7vc4fw9o]

Wow🎉Congratulations, dude! You're an inspiration, encouragement, and a genuine artist, you moved my heart! Keep it up and let's enjoy piano!!

[@jaybee4288]

I’m a piano teacher playing all my life. It’s incredible progress and great patience at this age, congratulations! I love how Elise is your day 4 piece and your day 365 piece. I always find it cute when people start with simplified versions of classics then later on improve them. 😊. Keep it up!

[@TheZyzyzyzyzy]

Inspiring. I´m 40 in two weeks. I´ve bought a keyboard for my kids, but felt too old to start to learn by myself. But now as I see you, it couln´t be too late for me too.

[@Demmi086]

Don't see any reasons why it can be too late. I tried to learn guitar in childhood for a couple of weeks but skipped it. Then I tried at 35 and felt like it is much easier to learn then in childhood. This is an old myth about the age that was already revealed.

[@rebeccaroskeland1163]

never too late!! good luck

[@datmangotho9618]

It’s never too late!! Just have fun with it and don’t be too frustrated if it’s hard

[@scottcoletta]

Nice! I have been teaching for 25 years, too many students to remember, and I’d say you’re making above average progress from what I’ve seen. Most need a lot longer to do what you’re doing even with determination and help. I suggest finding a good teacher to help you out, but regardless keep it up!

[@hiroki20]

You are just what I need for today. An absolute inspiration. Thank you.

[@BrittneeAlexus]

thank you!! this gives me hope!

[@Pixeliarmus]

It'll be 2 years for me in a couple months, started at the age of almost 29. Didn't know there were so many adult beginners like myself. Great progress and good job having the courage to start something new at an age where most would think it's too late for them

[@JoelSnape1]

Thank you! I checked out your channel, great work.

[@jimmysyar889]

Please! You’re so young!

[@kawiMC]

I started playing about 6 months ago at 31 years old. You’re far from alone!

[@hjelmstad2]

Really impressive progress! I've taught adult beginners who didn't make nearly this much progress, so that's a real testament to your determination and work ethic. One tip that I think would help a lot: sit closer and try to let your arms hang from the shoulder down. Then you can use the weight of your hanging arms as a way of "falling" onto the keys you want to play. I think this adjustment would make things feel a lot easier. Keep up the great work!

[@Nelson-sr2bi]

No, he clearly has a chad position

[@JoelSnape1]

I...don't know what this means but I'm taking it as a compliment?

[@JoelSnape1]

Thanks Robert! I've bought a stand since this video, and I'm trying to do exactly this, hopefully future videos will show an improvement!

[@tomcotter4299]

Lol you don’t want to know

[@m2i0n1i3]

This was wonderful to watch... Put a smile on my face 😊 Good luck to you!

[@ThankYou-bn6bp]

Omg I’m so glad to find you and this community! I’m 36 and have literally just started learning piano today. I look forward to the journey of learning as much as the results. ❤

[@JoelSnape1]

Amazing! Even if you're never going to post it, I recommend recording your progress, it's great to look back on.

[@judithharris1485]

Well done that man, I've always wanted to play the piano and at 65 you have just inspired me to start learning and I shall be teaching myself, as you did.

[@JoelSnape1]

Judith, this is genuinely fantastic news, thanks for your comment. Very best of luck with it, I hope it goes well.

[@judithharris1485]

@@JoelSnape1 Thank you Joel, have now ordered everything I need, can't wait for the delivery. X

[@devilvocano420]

@@judithharris1485 All the best Dont give up!

[@ChardeeMacdennis339]

Knowing how to play an instrument is a gift that literally keeps on giving. Also super helpful at relieving anxiety 😊

[@Troy_ZJuice_Man]

Thankyou for sharing! Love this

[@AlegriaAF]

Very inspiring, thanks for sharing ❤

[@Ryy_Ryy]

Man this is genuinly inspring. Im 31 an deal with depression and some self-esteem issues. I always feel like i want to learn to play an instrument but its always accompanied by a feeling of "its too late to start". I never played ANY instrument besies a recorder in elementary school. I dont know how to read music. Ive been wanting to learn the piano and this video showed me that Its not too late and I CAN DO IT if i put in effort and commit. Thank you

[@JoelSnape1]

I'm so glad to hear this, Ryan. It's not always easy but it's SO much fun and the process will teach you a lot. Please let me know how it goes!

[@ProphetOfBiss]

I’m 31, I started piano just ~4 months ago? Never had any music lessons. Also struggle with depression and anxiety. I used lessons as a means of dealing with my anxiety and learning a little more at home every day helps the depression and expression. Full steam ahead!

[@aleigor450]

@@ProphetOfBiss 32 here and getting bored of just playing video games and working, been thinking of picking an hobby like piano, but I have 0 musical skills. Reading comments like yours here is just inspiring me to maybe, just do it. Gonna dust off my dad's piano and let's do it!

[@bunkoishii]

Are we twins separated at birth!? 😂 I'm also 31, and recovering from severe depression... When visiting my parents two weeks ago, I snatched their old keyboard from the attic and I've been teaching myself how to play ever since. I'm a total noob with no experience and I can't read music sheets yet, but it feels really nice to be learning something new (but at the same time, that is not exactly like studying for a class). It's like... brain refreshing? Sorry, not a native speaker. And sorry about the rambling, but the point is -> maybe playing an instrument can also help you with your depression :') Hope things get better for you soon

[@Ashtarot77]

I'm 45 and only started to learn how to play the piano at the start of the year. I was shown the basic notes in primary school, and only properly learning how to read sheet music now. But there are also amazing KZbin Channels where tutors teach you how to play songs note by note. Bitesized Piano is one of them. To date I can play the likes of Satie, Beethoven, Chopin. It's easy when you put your mind to it, and piano is amazing for your mental health. Do it!!

[@ahaisga2675]

Just stumbled across this video. Been wanting to play piano for YEARS! I'm 22 and used to play the guitar but it got stolen and I never picked it back up. So I bit the bullet and bought a keyboard last night and now I'm just watching people's progress. You're doing an amazing job and I hope I can get there within time!

[@neoyasechaba221]

Thank you for the inspiration 😊

[@Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm567]

Love this honest showcase of skills! Great work brother! I’m right there with you learning at 34. Learning to read music is quite a challenge but for each song learned it’s quite a beautiful experience.

[@sashaspotato1396]

This was super heartwarming to watch! The progress is here, we can see how your efforts brought you where you are now (: keep up the good work you nailed this!

[@mjotd8670]

That is so impressive, you have nailed it! - Keep up the practice, playing an instrument pleases not only you, but the listeners.

[@j3llysn1per21]

I needed to see this!!! Thank you!

[@SugarCatLoaf]

Incredibly cool to hear the progress thank you for posting this and keep it up!

[@MommyBee1589]

This was heart warming to watch ♥️ being a lifelong learner is so important. Loved it and amazing progress! Gives me hope!

[@elvisojeda5600]

It's so refreshing to see someone who's not constrained by the common ideas like time and age. I've been working hard on my crafting and I'm no kid anymore; thank you for sharing, it can certainly inspire others.

[@nickiehartmusic]

I am impressed by your phenomenal progress in such a short space of time.

[@aggrothehorse9168]

Thank you, your video inspire me to keep practicing and getting better! Keep up the great work!

[@glendabear]

This is really inspirational. I’ve decided that at the age of 42 I would like to learn a musical instrument and have chosen the piano/keyboard. You are proof that practice makes perfect.

[@simontalks5752]

You are amazing! It is never too late to learn or pick up something again. I learned some guitar when I was a teenager but was never serious about it, so I put it down for almost 20 years. I picked up my guitar again last month, started to learn how to play in fingerstyle, and knowing I make some progress, I feel happy again.

[@IVANKK14]

This progress is amazing! It is a proof that hard work and consistency always pays off. Well done!

[@BohdanTrotsenko]

Awesome. Thanks for documenting this experiment.

[@tlhalosonakedi3348]

Awesome stuff. I’m on day 14, and I’m 42. Like so many have said, watching a real video of real progress is so inspiring. Plus you even got yourself a new piano.

[@nikolapetricevic]

You have a really great sense of rhythm when you are comfortable with a piece which is amazing.

[@JoelSnape1]

Ha thank you, it still feels clunky to me, but I'm glad to hear this!

[@christopherblackwell6362]

One year that’s super quick progress congrats 🎉keep it uon

[@garygreer5365]

Thank you for this. I have started the same journey about 2 months ago. Your progress is inspiring.

[@DWatso]

On this very road right now, I'm struggling to find the time, but getting there - seeing this video, through the concentration on your face as you stare at those keys in the early days, I recognise the win you are feeling - great work!

[@yungdon1934]

I just started this week and nothing makes me more happier than to hear my progress everyday!

[@JoelSnape1]

Get some of it on video, it's great to look back

[@antonio_carvalho]

Thank you for the inspiration! In my 40's here and dwelling with the idea of buying a piano to start learning, and your video gave me hope!

[@franceb3156]

Built like a Tank, has time for work, for family, for piano. This is Discipline and dedication. Really inspires me and I hope, other people too. Thankyouuuuuu.

[@Chasantnik]

As a piano teacher this is very inspiring. Many thanks for sharing.

[@daniellapierre9798]

Good job! Never to late to start learning something new! Started learning guitar at 50 and now I teach my grand son at 59, good luck!

[@rita4417]

You're doing really well, wow!!!

[@anontob]

I applaud ur hard work. I learned piano for over a decade now, it's honestly very impressive the way you've progressed in just a year. This is coming from someone half your age, and with over 10 year piano experience. Keep the good work up, your extremely talented!

[@matzacomn]

This is inspiring! I was kinda unsure to start playing piano due to my age, but this video gives me the push I needed!

[@JoelSnape1]

It's never too late! Best of luck!

[@DanielLearnsPiano]

Get started. I’m 43 and just about to finish my first year. It’s never too late.

[@dr.archanamuralidharan8891]

@@DanielLearnsPiano yup, I have seen 70 year olds starting the piano, age is just a number!

[@daveverwoerd6046]

I am 64 and also just started playing keyboard

[@davidgray2845]

I’m a 41 year old self taught guitarist. It’ll be 26 years in December that I’ve been playin. I’m proud of you brother! Way to stick with it 🤘

[@jah0708]

May I ask what tools you used to progress? I bought the Fender subscription and I've been trudging along. I also bought Rocksmith to go through their lessons. Still working through it. I feel like I've hit a wall and can't get past it!

[@Ashtarot77]

@@jah0708 How much do you pay for the Fender subscription? I take online piano lessons, with the option of actually going to the location, but I'm too lazy to travel 😂 Look up Ricky's School of Rock. Huddersfield based, but they offer online lessons. I pay £19 for 30 minutes. Some of their tutors have played with bands like Terrorvision. You also decide how often you want to have your lessons.

[@jah0708]

@@Ashtarot77 It's $75 a year or something like that. No personal tutor though, all pre-recorded videos. That price doesn't sound bad for 30 minutes if I am getting some direction!

[@PsyPsySimon]

Thank you so much! You have helped me in ways you cannot understand. I will come back to this one day, and thank you properly.

[@JoelSnape1]

My man - what an incredible comment to get. However this video's helped you, I'm glad it has. All the best with whatever you're doing. Keep in touch!

[@EddieTheBunny]

I'm sure you've given hope and inspired others to start an instrument or to start one back up. You definitely have for me. Thank you.

[@suvorovoleg9325]

You bet! Hadn't touched my midi-keyboard since marriage. Time to make some noise!

[@kgsuw]

Thank you so much! I'm 37 and I was so worried If I can make it. Just like you, wanted to be very fine at it. So happy to see, this is energy..

[@nikkanikka4657]

Congratulations!!! You inspired me to do the same. After all, hard work and consistency are the key to success.

[@henlokitty3358]

Ive been playing for 14 years and i must say that you have made a lot of progress. Keep going. Never too old to start ❤️

[@andyspiller0]

I've been playing the piano since I was 4 years old (I'm 60 now) and I just want to say congratulations, well done, and keep going - we all learn something new everyday

[@Rokanlevio]

this is great to watch someone with such determanation to do something they enjoy and just in one year you're amazing ☺

[@guycarignan2263]

Wonderful idea to record that fantastic progression.Bravo for your determination.

[@tvitali3196]

Amazing job on your first-year progress! I'm just getting back into playing piano myself and am very inspired by you :)

[@AegVII]

I bought a keyboard just about a year ago but really started to be consistent around October 2022. I started lessons and have made huge strides. What you accomplished in 1 year is amazing! (and you using a chair and books to hold up the keyboard 🤯) and you're self-taught. Props to you. I can't wait to see how much better I become with more time and dedication. Playing piano has become one of my favorite hobbies. I started this journey for my mental health and it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

[@roboto0101]

This is the way. Thank your for sharing the video.

[@kellylafrance1054]

Thank you for sharing! I'm 54 and trying to learn. Your video is extremely inspiring!

[@DanielLearnsPiano]

Great job! When I heard the intro I thought this was going to be another Fantaisie Impromptu by month 12 progress video. Glad to see it wasn’t. My first year is up soon, so will be adding to the pool of first year progress videos.

[@JoelSnape1]

Hahah, I'll be lucky if I can do Fantasie Impromptu by year 5 I think! Thank you.

[@gonzalozubillaga9341]

Thanks for sharing it gives me hope as well!!!

[@dennisbergman3896]

You a true inspiration Sir, thank you!

[@JoelSnape1]

Thank YOU for saying this

[@ReefJay]

never stop learning/improving

[@H0kram]

I started to play music a year ago and it's one of the hardest yet more entertaining thing ( I play in a band ) I've ever done. It teaches humility. I don't bother with time anymore and just practice and enjoy. In comparison, stuff I had to learn for demanding jobs really was much easier. Most things are not as complicated to master as people who practice it make it sounds ( for most jobs one can end up practicing, or most hobbies ), but music is the opposite, yet so enjoyable. Bravo dude, you've been consistent.

[@JoelSnape1]

Thanks! And yes I completely agree with this on the value of being used to practice. Awesome that you're playing with a band after one year, what do you play?

[@drskizo]

Thanks, it's motivating !

[@irinezulfa]

I need this to motivate me, thank you!

[@storm14k]

Congrats. You're on your way to the Revolutionary Etude and we're all here backing you and can't wait to see it. Now I'm going to take this inspiration and finally get serious about the guitar.

[@JoelSnape1]

Haha I had to look the Revolutionary Etude up. Hardest things on my SOMEDAY list are Moonlight Sonata 3 and La Campanella (which, honestly, I might never get). Good luck with the guitar!

[@mysticakhenaton1701]

THIS VIDEO IS SO INSPIRING/Joel, I am sure your video will inspire MANY.