Hello fellow musiscians(not sure I can even call myself that yet), I have a few questions. I`m 24 years old and just started playing the paino about a month ago.Iv`e always enjoyed music but family really never had the money to afford lessons or anything so I couldnt get that early start. I had a question regarding the piano grading system or something to that matter. I was reading a older post where someone mentioned they were on grade 8. That was the the first I even herad of it,and not sure how the system works(or anything about it) so if you could explain it that would be great. Also if anyone has any tips in general regarding the piano that would also be great. Thanks again all.
Daryl

ok, I never went through grades myself so I cant really give you any kind of detailed description of what they are about, but if you look up ABRSM ( who are one of the main examining boards for music) you may find some details on what its all about. However - do not be put off if you feel that you have to go through these exams in order to be a good pianist - you do not! I taught myself the piano as well how to read music, and have never had a piano lesson in my life, and that never stopped me - I was at exactly the same level as a lot of people who had done all the grades. So it really isnt that important. If anything I`d say these examinations take a lot of the fun out of music.

Ok thanks alot for your input, it helped me clear it up a bit.

Hi Daryl,

What Jen said is kinda true, about exams taking some of the fun out of playing. I`ve been playing piano for about 13 years and I started off with the grade system - and for a while it was OK. I`m from Australia, so obviously we have a diff music grading system, but I got to grade 5 piano. Still, I found that I wasn`t enjoying it that much and I hated practicing, so I quit. Since then I`ve kept playing and teaching myself and I enjoy it so much more! But if you are interested in going with the grades thing- do it. It`s a really good start, and it`s a good way to make sure you get a really good grip on the basics.

Hey
I`ve been playing music for about 6 years. I went by the grade system for a few years, but now I just play what I want. I have taken lessons although I haven`t lately. Highschool doesn`t make that easy on you. But I just say it doesn`t really matter what grade you are. Play what you want. The point is to have fun playing.