I want to learn how to play the piano fluently and be able to compose pieces. I dont want to have lessons and i want to teach myself, where do i start!?!?

Thanks, any help i wud enjoy...


Matty

Try learning how to play a piece of music by ear..it's difficult in the beginning but it will get easier with practice..start with simpler songs 1st though..dun be too ambitious tat way u get to compose pieces my humming a tune n then finding it on the piano..if u wanna note it down u can always use sibelius or finale notepad..with their playback features notation is a pleasure..also learning by ear encourages u to play from memory and with ur own style..tat way u'll naturally be able to play fluently..all the best!

that dummies books is great, wat sorta grade does that cover too?

I dont have much experience witht eh piano but I have taught myself to play and can recognize every note by ear. I suggest you just try rendom Ideas that come to your head. Its also good to learn alot of chords they play a big part in composing songs.Of course you must know how to read music.(I dont know how) but I am planing on learning soon. for example try to play this





This is nothing I just randomely composed this but if you can play it jsut by looking then you know you can read music

If you are starting from scratch and don't want a teacher, you should try going to the music theory section of 8notes. There are tons of lessons there that can help you out. Also, if you are looking for free piano lessons that you can start from an absolute beginner level, you should check out http://www.zebrakeys.com. I have been working on this website for about a year now and just recently released it about a month ago. There are plenty of flash animations to help you out as well. And like I said, 8notes has wonderful resources as well that will get you started!

Mondul
Zebra Keys Webmaster

There are basic rules in reading music and writing it. This includes how to write the notes, rests, rhythm values, and the key of your piece correctly. If you're serious about all this, don't be afraid of taking steps to acquire the knowledge you need. It sure beats ignorance!