When Does the Piano Practice End? Experiences and Insights

Deciding when to stop practicing the piano can be a subjective and deeply personal decision. The answer largely depends on one's goals and what is meant by stopping. In my case, I continued playing almost every day for over 58 years, only halting the practice when the pain became intolerable. As an enthusiast who remains deeply curious, the piano has always been a focused interest, offering endless possibilities for improvement. But when does the journey conclude?

Practicing the Piano as an Unending Journey

I have dedicated over six decades to piano lessons, and while I may face limitations, the quest for perfection and understanding is an enduring one. Even in my advanced age, I frequently find areas in my playing that still need improvement. The curiosity and desire to enhance my skills persist, much like a lifelong friendship or an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. The idea of reaching a point where everyone deems me perfect is a highly subjective notion, and true mastery is often accompanied by the realization that there is always room for growth.

My Experience with Piano Practice

My journey with piano practice took a different turn when I faced an unexpected change in circumstances. The piano I had been practicing on was removed from my family home while I was still studying music. This move did not significantly impact my keyboard skills, but it did provide me with an opportunity to pass an obligatory exam. While the exam was a requirement, the utility of my piano playing extended far beyond the classroom. When I later led my own choir, the piano played a crucial role. I learned the accompaniments for various songs, recording and practicing parts for my choir, a process that amazed even me. I realized that I could perform with the same proficiency as a hired accompanist, especially for carols that I had rehearsed often. Yet, even with the driving force of necessity and practice, my dedication waned over time as I became more slack in my daily routine, and the physical demands of playing became insurmountable due to neurological damage.

The Moment of Grand Performance

The pinnacle of a pianist's journey is often marked by the opportunity to perform on a stage like Carnegie Hall. The Rocky Mountains concert hall in the Colorado Springs area might seem less dramatic, but the sense of accomplishment and the exultation of performing the Rachmaninov third piano concerto in front of a captive and enthusiastic audience is unparalleled. The spontaneous encore requests and standing ovation signal a moment of pure success for any performer. These instances are the immediate indicators that one's practice has borne fruit and that they have arrived at a level of proficiency that has captivated an audience.

Conclusion

The decision to stop piano practice is deeply personal and often marked by a combination of physical, mental, and emotional factors. Whether it's the physical pain that becomes unbearable, the lack of motivation, or the pursuit of a seemingly unattainable level of perfection, the journey of the pianist is a lifelong one. While some may be content in reaching a proficient level, for others, mastery is a constant pursuit. The timeless joy and accomplishment of playing the piano serve as reminders that stopping should only be a choice made when the desire and ability wane, not when external or physical constraints dictate otherwise.