Learning to play and read piano music is one of the most rewarding things you can do — whether you’re a child just starting out or an adult finally taking the plunge. As a Brighton piano teacher, I’ve taught hundreds of students of all ages, and I’ve seen first-hand what works best when it comes to learning to read music confidently and play beautifully.
Start With a Good Method Book
There are so many different ways to learn piano these days — YouTube tutorials, apps, and online courses — but nothing beats the structure and clarity of a proper piano method book.
I highly recommend that beginners, both kids and adults, start with a well-graded method book. It’s designed to take you through learning to read and play step by step, so you don’t get lost or overwhelmed. Each page introduces just one new musical concept at a time, helping you connect what you see on the page with what you play on the keys.
When I teach piano lessons in Brighton, I always work directly from a book with my students. We go through it together at your pace — learning how to find the notes, read rhythms, understand hand positions, and play with confidence.
Learning Rhythm — The Kodály Way
One method I especially recommend for developing rhythm and musical understanding is the Kodály method. It’s fantastic for both children and adults because it uses simple rhythmic syllables (like “ta” and “ti-ti”) and movement to help you really feel the beat.
Before you know it, you’ll be clapping, counting, and reading rhythms like a natural musician. I often weave Kodály-based rhythm exercises into my piano lessons here in Brighton because they build strong timing and confidence — skills that make a huge difference when learning new pieces.
Choosing the Right Book
There are loads of excellent method books out there — Alfred’s, Faber, Hal Leonard, and others. The “best” one often depends on your age and learning style:
- For younger children, I like colourful, story-based books that make learning fun and visual.
- For adults, I prefer clean, straightforward layouts that focus on note reading and clear progress.
If you’re not sure where to start, I can help you choose the perfect book for your goals when you begin your piano lessons in Brighton or East Sussex.
How I Teach
Each lesson is built around your individual pace and progress. We’ll:
- Learn to read notes clearly and confidently
- Develop rhythm using Kodály-based exercises
- Build hand coordination through short, tuneful pieces
- Add musicality and dynamics early on so it always sounds like real music
Whether you’re learning classical, pop, or film music, the foundations are the same — and they start with reading and rhythm.
Practice Tips for Beginners
Here are a few of my go-to tips for anyone starting to learn piano:
🎹 Practice little and often – 10–15 minutes a day keeps your reading and coordination sharp.
🧠 Say the notes out loud as you play — this reinforces your reading.
👀 Keep your eyes on the music, not your hands — it’s the key to becoming a fluent reader.
🎵 Play slowly at first — focus on accuracy and control before speed.
Why This Approach Works
Starting with a structured method book and rhythm training gives you a strong foundation. You’re not just memorising songs — you’re learning how to read music fluently, so you can sit down at any piano and play from sheet music with confidence.
It’s a skill that lasts a lifetime, and I see students of all ages succeed with it every week in my Brighton studio
Ready to Start Learning Piano in Brighton?
If you’re based in Brighton, Hove, or across East Sussex, and you’d like to start learning piano — whether you’re 6 or 60 — I’d love to help.
I offer friendly, structured piano lessons for kids and adults in Brighton, with a focus on reading music, rhythm, and creativity. We’ll work through a method book together, and I’ll guide you step by step until you’re confidently reading and playing real music.
📍 Learn piano in Brighton today — get in touch via ashleypiano.net to find out more or book your first lesson.