Pianoforall Review: Can This Course Really Teach You Piano?

Pianoforall has become a popular method for learning piano online. But does it truly deliver on its promises? This review dives deep into the Pianoforall course, examining its strengths, weaknesses, and overall effectiveness. If you’re considering learning piano and are curious about Pianoforall, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll explore who it’s for, what it offers, and whether it’s the right fit for your musical journey.

What is Pianoforall?

Pianoforall is an online piano course created by Robin Hall. It distinguishes itself from traditional piano lessons by focusing on playing popular songs and chords from the very beginning. Instead of laborious exercises and sight-reading drills, Pianoforall encourages students to jump right into making music. The course is structured around a series of eBooks containing video and audio lessons designed to be followed sequentially.

Who is Pianoforall For?

Pianoforall is particularly well-suited for beginners who are intimidated by traditional piano lessons. Its visual, pattern-based approach can make learning feel more intuitive and less overwhelming.

• Beginners: If you have no prior piano experience, Pianoforall provides a solid foundation.
• Visual Learners: The course relies heavily on visual aids and diagrams, beneficial for those who learn best by seeing.
• Students Seeking Immediate Gratification: The emphasis on playing songs early on can be very encouraging for beginners.
• Those Looking for an Affordable Option: Compared to in-person lessons or some other online courses, Pianoforall is budget-friendly.
• Individuals with limited time: The structure is segmented into separate components to allow the flexibility to pause and resume learning, fitting small blocks of learning into busy schedules.

Who might find it less ideal? Those aiming for advanced classical performance or those who need the direct interaction and personalized feedback offered by a live teacher.

What Does Pianoforall Offer?

The Pianoforall course is comprised of nine interactive eBooks. These eBooks incorporate videos and audio. Each book focuses on different styles and techniques. Here’s a breakdown:

Book 1: The Basics

This book covers the fundamentals, including chords, rhythms, and playing simple melodies. It gets you playing popular chord progressions quickly.

Book 2: Chord Magic

Expands on the chord knowledge from Book 1, teaching more complex chords and voicings.

Book 3: Blues & Rock ‘n’ Roll

Introduces blues and rock ‘n’ roll rhythms and techniques.

Book 4: Taming the Classics

Applies the Pianoforall method to classical pieces, making them more accessible.

Book 5: Ballad Style

Focuses on playing ballads and creating beautiful, flowing arrangements.

Book 6: Jazz Piano

Introductory material on Jazz Piano and how to begin.

Book 7: Advanced Chords

This is one of the most detailed parts of the course which features inversions, walking bass, 7th chords, passing chords, runs, trills, and suspensions.

Book 8: Latin

A look into the wonderful world of Latin Piano. This has a strong rhythmic focus.

Book 9: Christmas

Seasonal songs for you to practice and play.

The Pianoforall Learning Method: A Deep Dive

Pianoforall’s secret lies in its unique approach. It veers sharply away from old-fashioned methods that focus on sight-reading and scales. Instead, Robin Hall, the creator, emphasizes chord-based learning and rhythm-based playing.

Chord-Based Approach

The emphasis is on understanding and playing chords from the outset. You learn to recognize chord patterns and progressions.

Rhythm Training

Rhythm gets just as much attention as chords. You’ll learn various rhythmic patterns, from simple rock beats to complex Latin rhythms. This is great for developing your internal sense of timing and groove.

Visual Learning

The course uses lots of visual aids, diagrams, and charts to help you understand concepts. If you’re a visual learner, you’ll appreciate this aspect of Pianoforall.

Play-Along Tracks

Each lesson includes play-along tracks. Playing with these tracks helps to build confidence.

Benefits of Using Pianoforall

Here’s a summary of benefits that are associated with using Pianoforall:

• Affordable: Much cheaper than private lessons.
• Convenient: Learn at your own pace, anywhere with an internet connection.
• Engaging: Focuses on playing songs, which can be highly motivating.
• Comprehensive: Covers a wide range of styles.
• Accessible: No need to read sheet music.

Potential Drawbacks

Although Pianoforall offers various benefits, it’s also important to recognize its limitations.

• Lack of Personalized Feedback: Unlike having a personal tutor, there’s no one there to correct your technique in real-time.
• Not Suitable for All Styles: If you’re aiming for classical excellence, other programs or private tuition might be better.
• Requires Self-Discipline: You need to be motivated.
• Limited Sight-Reading Training: Sight-reading is not a central focus.
• Potentially Dated Interface: Many of the ebooks and videos are rather dated.

Pianoforall: Real User Experiences and Testimonials

While product descriptions and marketing materials offer one perspective, hearing from actual users provides invaluable insights. Many users praise the course for its simplicity and effectiveness, particularly in getting them playing songs quickly. They appreciate the affordable price point and the convenience of learning at their own pace.

However, some users note the lack of personalized feedback as a drawback and acknowledge that it might not be suitable for those seeking advanced classical training. The consensus tends to be positive for beginners and intermediate learners seeking a fun and accessible introduction to the piano.

Is Pianoforall Right For You? A Decision Guide

Deciding whether Pianoforall is the right choice depends on your individual learning style, goals, and preferences. If you’re a complete beginner who wants to start playing popular songs quickly, Pianoforall can be a great option. If you’re an advanced player looking for in-depth training in classical music, you might want to consider other alternatives.

• Consider your budget: Pianoforall is a cost-effective option.
• Examine your goals: If you want to play popular songs and chords.
• Assess your learning style: If you are better at visual learning.
• Think about discipline: Do you have enough discipline to work alone?

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether Pianoforall is the right piano learning solution for you.

Alternatives to Pianoforall

While Pianoforall presents a distinctive approach to piano education, it’s wise to explore other options available in the digital learning landscape. Consider other platforms such as flowkey, Skoove and Playground Sessions, each offering different features, teaching styles, and subscription models.

These platforms deliver interactive lessons, immediate feedback, and extensive song libraries. Comparing alternative solutions allows you to make a well-informed decision.

Final Verdict: Is Pianoforall Worth It?

Pianoforall offers a unique and accessible approach to learning the piano. Its emphasis on chords, rhythms, and playing songs early can be incredibly motivating for beginners. While it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those seeking advanced training in classical music, it’s a solid choice for those who want to learn to play popular songs and have fun. Is Pianoforall worth it? For many beginners, the answer is a resounding yes. It provides a cost-effective, convenient, and engaging way to start your piano journey.