I decided to resume piano playing last week, when my arthritic hands finally said "enough" to my 49-years of guitar playing. It seems piano doesn't hurt my hands. As an ex-orchestral trombonist, I know the bass clef as well as the treble clef. I self-taught myself a little on my mother's piano 40 years ago, but never touched one since except for a simple bit of "Satin Doll" which is mechanically easy. I was afraid I was too old to learn the piano, but now my bad thumbs and my love of music-making are forcing me.

So I sat down at my daughter's piano two days ago, and now have memorized the first 17 bars of the "Hill Street Blues" theme after four hours' practice (the sheet music is available throught the Pianoworld link).

I've researched a lot of local piano teachers on the internet already, but am wondering if it's worth engaging one yet, as I seem to be making surprisingly good progress on my own.

I'd appreciate comments from anyone, especially those in "quasi-limbo land" like me who are getting their feet wet again.

if you think you need a teacher, then get one. it is easier to learn playing piano from a teacher.

Get a teacher if you want to speed your progress by a couple of times or more. You already said that you feel close to having one foot in the grave; so you don't have the time to waste.

Hi I think it's really worthwhile to get a teacher at least for 6-12 mths. I was also wondering if I shld get a teacher 2 months ago and I tot maybe I can learn by myself (which no doubt possible but time spent will be longer). On top of this, my teacher pointed several mistakes like rhythm, relaxation, pressing of keys etc etc just for 5 lessons. So I believe I will benefit more in weeks/months to come.

By the way, where do u get the music sheet ? can refer the link to me ?

Thanks everybody; I guess I should get a teacher. I'm already noticing my hand placement will be a problem unless I get help. I don't need to learn scales or theory, just how to make the piano make pretty sound.

I had doubts because I tried a couple guitar teachers 10 years ago and was really not assisted. I know this forum was for adults who have picked up piano playing again.

Luckychwee, the link is http://www.sheetmusicplus.com

It's on the menu on this site