{"id":4891,"date":"2021-09-08T08:33:26","date_gmt":"2021-09-08T15:33:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/?p=4891"},"modified":"2023-07-28T08:42:45","modified_gmt":"2023-07-28T15:42:45","slug":"national-piano-month-10-things-to-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/national-piano-month-10-things-to-do\/","title":{"rendered":"National Piano Month: 10 Ways to Celebrate"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>September is National Piano Month! That&#8217;s right \u2014 we pianists are lucky enough to get an entire month to celebrate our favorite instrument. If you don&#8217;t love your piano (and playing it) enough, here are ten creative ways to get the most of your piano love this month:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#1\">Learn the history of the piano<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#2\">Listen to a piano artist you&#8217;ve never heard before<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#3\">Give your piano a spa day!<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#4\">Learn something in a different genre<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#5\">Try improvising your own song!<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#6\">Support a piano creator on YouTube<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#7\">Teach someone a simple skill on the piano<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#8\">Watch a movie about pianos or a pianist<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#9\">Learn about synthesizers! (Or try one)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#10\">Stage a National Piano Month performance<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#bonus\">BONUS! Join Pianote \ud83d\ude42<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:56%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/RG4UPTI1bpBNbviy3w\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/nbcthevoice-nbc-the-voice-finale-RG4UPTI1bpBNbviy3w\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-color has-css-opacity has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1\"><strong>#1. Learn the history of the piano<\/strong> \ud83d\udcdc<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/history-of-the-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">story of the piano<\/a> is fascinating. It&#8217;s an instrument that has been around for a long time, so if you&#8217;re unfamiliar with its origins, now&#8217;s the time to take a deep dive into the piano&#8217;s story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>The ancestors of the piano are the harpsichord and the clavichord. Piano engineering took another big leap forward when <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/who-invented-the-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bartholomew Cristofori<\/a> invented the pianoforte in the 1700s. For the first time, a piano could create soft or loud sounds based on how hard you hit the keys. &#8220;Pianoforte&#8221; literally means &#8220;soft-loud&#8221; (piano = soft; forte = loud).<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"A brief history of the pianoforte - Leeds International Piano Competition 2012\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/BMxqAKxWMYA?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Hear a harpsichord, a Cristofori pianoforte, and a Broadwood piano in this BBC documentary. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How does a Grand Piano work? - Part 1\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/NDvS2V7HbnY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An animation that shows the mechanism of how a grand piano works.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">This month, find a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/roland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">piano <\/a>documentary on YouTube or learn <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/how-to-buy-piano\/#1-2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">how pianos work<\/a>. You&#8217;ll discover that the piano is a marvellous feat of engineering, all the more impressive because Cristofori likely invented it all by himself. And while we have very high-tech digital pianos now, the mechanical ingenuity of an acoustic piano with over <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/BMxqAKxWMYA?t=303\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">12,000 parts<\/a> is inspiring to say the least.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<iframe class=\"email-form-include-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/weekly-email\" frameborder=\"none\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2\"><strong>#2. Listen to a piano artist you&#8217;ve never heard before<\/strong> \ud83e\uddd1\u200d\ud83c\udfa4<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you play piano, people like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/billy-joel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Billy Joel<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/oscar-peterson\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Oscar Peterson<\/a>, and Franz Liszt are probably household names. But this month, why not expand your musical library? Listen to an artist who&#8217;s more under-the-radar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">Into classical music? Then check out composers like <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/plKLrnRcVwc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gabriel Faur\u00e9<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/hWpPEsE8hyI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fanny Mendelssohn<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=cw7ME9O0vxg&amp;ab_channel=NoontimeConcertsSanFrancisco\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Francis Poulenc<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/jpmXwn_KkkE\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Domenico Scarlatti<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/fMlmJ94WcUs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Clara Schumann<\/a>. They&#8217;re all highly accomplished composers who have enjoyed less recognition than, say, Chopin and Beethoven.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Francis Poulenc Melancolie\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/cw7ME9O0vxg?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">If you like heavier stuff, check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/yvette-young-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Yvette Young<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/A8RCz_RoefM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hiromi<\/a> or rock pianists like <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/HIJPxxoF7dw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">vkgoeswild<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/coGLk2Clq3g\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gazmada<\/a>. If you&#8217;ve always assumed that the piano is a gentle instrument, prepare to get proven wrong!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Yearn - Yvette Young\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rQizSeJ1PaU?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">Want to stick with softer pop? Try <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/SummerSweeSingh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Summer Swee-Singh<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/gArIvTJdrEc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Alexis Ffrench<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/S7Bo4-NCEDk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">RIOPY<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/24Y3RDyX2r8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Grandbrothers<\/a>. Lots of interesting things are happening in the pop piano realm these days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">You can also check out the pianists behind the scenes of your favorite artists&#8230;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Polyphia | New Levels New Devils Medley (Piano Ensemble)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/aUm7uWnyclo?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/yamahaentertainmentgroup.com\/all-access\/item\/445-erskine-hawkins-recital-hall-to-rihanna\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Erskine Hawkins<\/a> plays keyboard for Eminem and Rihanna. And <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/18UjRyJZAL8\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Victoria Theodore<\/a>, a classically-trained pianist, plays for Beyonce, Stevie Wonder, Sting, and more. Our favorite pop artists would likely sound very different without them!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Behind The Scenes with Erskine Hawkins for Yamaha\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/P4-5btkL1Ms?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3\"><strong>#3. Give your piano a spa day<\/strong> \u263a\ufe0f \ud83c\udfb9<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Your beloved piano can handle a pretty tough beating. If it&#8217;s been a while since you&#8217;ve cleaned yours, National Piano Month is a perfect time to show it some love!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/pianote.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com\/blog\/2021\/National%20Piano%20Month%2010%20Things%20to%20Do\/cleaning%20piano.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/pianote.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com\/blog\/2021\/National%20Piano%20Month%2010%20Things%20to%20Do\/piano%20tuning.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">Digital pianos don&#8217;t need a lot of maintenance, but acoustic pianos benefit from a tuning every six months or twice a year. A simple dusting should keep your pianos shiny, but for added sparkle, you can buy specially designed piano polish. Just make sure you get the right product for your finish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-right\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/how-to-buy-piano\/#5-2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">More info on tuning and maintaining your piano &gt;&gt;<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4\"><strong>#4. Learn something in a different genre<\/strong> \ud83d\udcfb<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">The amazing thing about the piano is that it can handle so many different types of music. Practically all Western music genres can work on the piano.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/pianote.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com\/blog\/2021\/National%20Piano%20Month%2010%20Things%20to%20Do\/piano%20with%20sax.jpg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><meta charset=\"utf-8\">So, if you normally play pop, try <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/jazz-piano-chord-progression\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">jazz<\/a>. If you&#8217;re a fan of Bach, try some Debussy or Ravel. In other words, dip your fingers in a piano genre that is not your usual cup of tea. You may be surprised!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And if you&#8217;re unfamiliar with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/piano-chords\/#5-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">chord charts<\/a>, download a few from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ultimate-guitar.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ultimate-Guitar.com<\/a> to try your hand at some pop songs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those of you who want to tackle classical music, start with a few <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/easy-classical-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">easy (yet timeless) pieces<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5\"><strong>#5. Try improvising your own song! \ud83e\udde0<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/chord-theory\/improvisation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Improvising<\/a> can feel intimidating for beginners, but it&#8217;s a skill just like scales and chords. You can learn it and practice it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And with a few tools, improvising doesn&#8217;t have to be scary! Start by learning a simple <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/pentatonic-scale\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">chord progression<\/a>, then play a scale in the same key on your other hand. These are your &#8220;safe&#8221; notes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"MORE Secrets To Playing Background Music On The Piano\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/o9WrJbRCaOs?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The awesome thing about improvising is that you can create a song that&#8217;s entirely, uniquely, your own. And you don&#8217;t have to start from scratch. Start by mastering a few ingredients \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/piano-chord-progressions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">chord progressions<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/pentatonic-scale\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pentatonic scales<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/riffs-and-fills\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">riffs and fills<\/a> \u2014 then mix and match those ingredients and see what you can come up with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And before you know it, you&#8217;ll be wasting even more time at the piano and having fun!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6\"><strong>#6. Support a piano creator on YouTube<\/strong> \ud83d\udcf9<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Tons of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/youtube-piano-players\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">indie creators<\/a> are making amazing content on YouTube. (And no, we don&#8217;t mean us \u2014 though if you haven&#8217;t already, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/PianoteOfficial\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">subscribe to Pianote<\/a> and help us hit one million!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>If you&#8217;re a music nerd like us, you might be fascinated by theory but bored by textbooks meant for college students. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, YouTubers like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/CharlesCornellStudios\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Charles Cornell<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UC8R8FRt1KcPiR-rtAflXmeg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nahre Sol<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/AdamNeely\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Adam Neely<\/a> have got you covered. They create detailed, curiosity-driven videos on music theory that are educational, easy to understand, and entertaining. Watch a few videos and wow your friends during your next dinner party!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Happy Birthday in the Styles of 10 Classical Composers (COMPILATION)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ToO7OXDiV04?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>And if comedy is more your thing, channels like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/BrasilianMusician\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Vinteheiro<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/SethEverman\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Seth Everman<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/c\/danielthrasher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Daniel Thrasher<\/a> will have you laughing for hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you like the work of a certain YouTuber, see if they have a Patreon you can contribute to. This directly helps independent creators.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"how to create billie eilish&#039;s &quot;bad guy&quot;\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/VSPuRXkUWoU?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<iframe class=\"email-form-include-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/weekly-email\" frameborder=\"none\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7\"><strong>#7. Teach someone a simple skill on the piano<\/strong> \ud83e\uddd1\u200d\ud83c\udfeb<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Why not share the joy of piano with someone else this month? Lots of people want to play piano, but many are either intimidated by it or had a bad experience with piano lessons. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Teach someone that they don&#8217;t have to be a virtuoso to have fun at the piano. Just a few tidbits of knowledge, like chords and riffs, can go a long way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s proof that anyone \u2014 literally anyone! \u2014 can create beautiful music on the piano:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Calming Keys - How The Piano Can Help You Feel GOOD \ud83d\ude0c\ud83c\udfb9\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/YdpVZdrBMZY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"3 Beautiful Melodies That ANYONE Can Play! (Piano Tutorial)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/io7t5FYdFdQ?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/calming-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Calming Keys<\/a> &#8211; In this video, Lisa teaches a very simple, anxiety-reducing improvisation exercise that <em>anyone<\/em> can learn<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/3-beautiful-melodies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3 Beautiful Melodies That ANYONE Can Play<\/a> &#8211; You don&#8217;t need to have amazing technique to play these three melodies, just the right inspiration!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Share these videos with a friend. Or, better yet, sit down with them at the piano and guide them through their <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/kaitlyns-first-progression\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">first chord progression<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8\"><strong>#8. Watch a movie about pianos and\/or pianists<\/strong> \ud83c\udf7f<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>Filmmakers are just as inspired by the piano as us musicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re into musical movies, here are some you may want to put on your list:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/cyTn4XIYH8M\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Piano (1993)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/aOkKH6-h6wA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shine (1996)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/BFwGqLa_oAo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Pianist (2002)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/jVHCQfcugdw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ray (2004)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/nEoM7bM7KVw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Grand Piano (2013)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/QkZxoko_HC0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Green Book (2018)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/S3vO8E2e6G0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rocketman (2019)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>They all have something to do with the piano or a pianist.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Shine - Trailer (1996) HQ\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/aOkKH6-h6wA?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9\"><strong>#9. Learn about synthesizers (or try one!)<\/strong> \ud83c\udf9b\ufe0f<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If the harpsichord is the grandfather of pianos, then <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/synthesizers-for-beginners\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">synthesizers<\/a> are the next generation of pianos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Swimming in Synths with Mr. Tuna (Pianote Vlog)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/P65zYKzwWPE?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>If you get the chance to visit a music store, try out some synthesizers. The many knobs and buttons can be intimidating, but if you&#8217;re interested in composing or producing, a synthesizer will be a children&#8217;s candy store for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And by layering a few looping tracks, you can create something original and neat with just a few chords and notes.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"blue-text-block\">\ud83d\udd25\ud83c\udfb9 <b><i>HOT DEAL ALERT!<\/i><\/b> Right now, when you buy any <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/roland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Roland keyboard<\/a>, you&#8217;ll get 90 days of Pianote membership <b>for free<\/b>.<\/span>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10\"><strong>#10. Stage a National Piano Month performance<\/strong> \ud83c\udfad<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/24083919\/dexibell-band-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4803\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/app\/uploads\/2021\/08\/24083919\/dexibell-band-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/app\/uploads\/2021\/08\/24083919\/dexibell-band-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/app\/uploads\/2021\/08\/24083919\/dexibell-band-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/app\/uploads\/2021\/08\/24083919\/dexibell-band.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Playing piano alone in your room is fun, but music is meant to be shared. So, if you&#8217;re down for the challenge, consider putting on a performance this month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some ideas to get you started:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Perform in front of friends and family. <\/strong>This is a great option for those who are completely new to performing music. Try performing in front of trusted people first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Busk. <\/strong>Busking can help you gain exposure, make friends, and collect some spare change. Before you go busking, check your city bylaws first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Volunteer. <\/strong>Places such as senior centres and hospitals may invite volunteer musicians to play background music. This is a great way to give back to the community and practice performing at the same time!<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Upload a video to YouTube.<\/strong> The advantage to this is that you can do as many takes as you want. You can also get feedback on your playing from people anywhere in the world.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Upload a video to Reddit (or other piano community). <\/strong>We get it; showcasing yourself on social media is scary. But piano-dedicated communities like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reddit.com\/r\/piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">r\/piano<\/a> or the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/groups\/1404169582941513\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pianote Students Facebook group<\/a> are more supportive. These communities are full of like-minded people who can give you honest but encouraging feedback.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Do a livestream. <\/strong>Finally, many pianists are finding joy and recognition on streaming platforms like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reddit.com\/r\/pan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">RPAN<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.twitch.tv\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Twitch<\/a>. You can even put a Paypal link on a poster behind you so people can tip you. It&#8217;s like virtual busking!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Performing will feel scary at first, but the more you do it, the more confident you&#8217;ll feel. If you&#8217;ve been learning piano this year, National Piano Month might be the perfect opportunity to take this big next step!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"bonus\"><strong>BONUS! Join the Pianote 90-Day Challenge \ud83d\ude42<\/strong> \ud83c\udfb9<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>By the way, did we mention we have a hot offer this month?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>This month, join us for the 90-Day Piano Challenge. <\/strong>The Challenge gives you 90 days of access to the Pianote method for just $49 (ordinarily valued at $87).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find more info about the deal <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>. And Happy Piano Month!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"width:100%;height:0;padding-bottom:55%;position:relative;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/embed\/xT39Do9VvOU8wJVJ9m\" width=\"100%\" height=\"100%\" style=\"position:absolute\" frameBorder=\"0\" class=\"giphy-embed\" allowFullScreen><\/iframe><\/div><p><a href=\"https:\/\/giphy.com\/gifs\/foxhomeent-big-piano-xT39Do9VvOU8wJVJ9m\">via GIPHY<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<iframe class=\"email-form-include-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/weekly-email\" frameborder=\"none\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>September is National Piano Month! Here are 10 ways to get the most out of a month celebrating a beloved, versatile instrument.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":4909,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1108],"tags":[1069],"class_list":["post-4891","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-musicianship","tag-gsotp"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4891","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4891"}],"version-history":[{"count":19,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4891\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14749,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4891\/revisions\/14749"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4909"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4891"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4891"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4891"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}