How to Teach Yourself to Play an Instrument

Many people dream of playing an instrument and spending all their free time making music. However, it’s easier to fantasize about being a musician than it is to actually learn the instrument, sign up for lessons, and commit to practicing. Not everyone likes being held accountable to a strict weekly lesson schedule administered by an in-person teacher. 

Fortunately, learning an instrument has never been more accessible than it is now. It’s possible to take online lessons, establish your own practicing schedule, and learn your dream instrument at your own pace. 

If you’ve always wanted to learn an instrument but never done it before, now is your chance. Check out this guide for learning an instrument your way.

Choose the Instrument

With the determination to get started, you need to choose which instrument to learn. Maybe you’ve always dreamt of being a guitarist? Maybe you’ve been drawn to the keyboard or upright piano? Perhaps you’ve even considered becoming a drummer. Once you’ve settled on the instrument you want to learn, it’s time to buy the right gear.

No matter what instrument you choose, you’ll want to look for a reliable site that features a variety of equipment and a friendly team to answer questions. At DCP, you can go in and try out the equipment before buying. Be cautious of website that don’t have several pictures and specs list about the gear.

Dedicate a Consistent Period of Time Per Day

If you’re going to learn an instrument, you need to be diligent with the amount of time that you spend practicing. You can’t buy an instrument, pick it up every once in a while, and expect to become a master musician. Spending a consistent period of time every day practicing will help you improve and become a better musician. 

Spend at least 30 minutes playing around and practicing every day. You don’t need to be strict with it. Sometimes you can just sit with the instrument and mess around. Other days, you can learn a song. 

Start Simple

Give yourself room to make mistakes and learn the ropes. You probably have songs in your head that you’d love to play, but be realistic. You can work up to your dream songs as you get better at the instrument. Start off with pieces that will challenge you but not make you feel frustrated and give up. 

Aim to learn one new song a week, with leeway in case you want to learn a harder song or you end up learning something quicker than you thought. 

Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself

Keep in mind that learning an instrument takes time and dedication. Sometimes you won’t feel motivated to play or maybe you’ll have a day when you just can’t get anything to sound right. That’s okay. Continue to dedicate time every day. Keeping a consistent schedule will help you pick yourself back up. The motivation will come and go, but a consistent schedule will make the tough times more bearable. 

Sometimes you’ll choose a song that’s too difficult. Instead of giving up, switch to an easier song and then go back to the other song later. 

Utilize Free Online Resources

The internet gives you access to many online resources that help you become a better musician. When it comes to learning music, you can find tutorials for every instrument online, whether on YouTube or through someone’s website. 

Online videos of musicians playing instruments can motivate you to become a better performer. Your favorite player can give you insight into how they crafted their unique sound.

You’ll Be Playing an Instrument in No Time

Playing an instrument is not an impossible dream. If you dedicate time and effort, you’ll make music. You just have to get started, maintain a set schedule, and allow yourself to make mistakes. 

Making music is for everyone, as long as you’re willing to work!