21 Easy Piano Tutorials for Beginners That Will Make You Sound Like a Pro!

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, these easy piano tutorials are perfect to help beginner pianists to develop their confidence and skills so they can sound like a pro.

Ever dreamt of tickling the ivories like a pro? You’re in luck! Discovering the joy of piano playing as a beginner can be both exciting and overwhelming. Luckily, I’ve gathered 21 easy piano tutorials that will have you impressing friends and family in no time. Each song comes with a step-by-step guide, making it super simple to follow along, even if you’ve never touched a piano before. From timeless classics to contemporary hits, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Grab your sheet music, and let’s dive in!

1. ‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star’

‘Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star’ is a childhood favorite and a perfect starting point for beginners. Its simple melody is easy to learn, and you’ll be playing it in no time. The song’s repetitive structure allows you to focus on finger positioning and rhythm without feeling overwhelmed.

To master this tune, start with the first line, playing the C, C, G, G, A, A, G notes. Then, move on to the second line, repeating the same format. Practice slowly, gradually speeding up as you become more comfortable. This sweet lullaby is not just for kids; it’s a delightful piece that can warm anyone’s heart!

Use your right hand for the melody initially. Once you’re comfortable, try adding a left-hand accompaniment with simple chords (C, G, F) to enrich the sound. For those looking to enhance their learning experience, consider checking out Thompson’s easiest piano course (part 1): revised edition. This beginner piano book provides clear instructions and helpful exercises that can complement your practice with songs like this one.

Learning this song helps develop finger coordination and improves overall confidence in playing. With the right resources, you’ll be on your way to sounding like a pro!

Product Recommendations:
• Piano keyboard stickers for beginners
• beginner piano songbook with easy melodies
• adjustable piano bench for comfort while playing

2. ‘Mary Had a Little Lamb’

Next up is ‘Mary Had a Little Lamb,’ another instant classic. This tune is not only simple but also teaches you about playing stepwise motion in music. The melody flows up and down the keyboard, making it a great exercise for beginners.

The notes you’ll be playing are E, D, C, D, E, E, E, D, D, D, E, D, C. Once you get this down, you can play it without even thinking about it! The repetition in the melody makes it easy to remember, allowing you to focus on getting your timing just right.

To help you on your journey, consider picking up Thompson’s easiest piano course (part 1): revised edition. This beginner piano book provides a solid foundation for learning essential skills, making it easier to master songs like this one.

Take it slow at first and gradually increase your speed for a more polished sound. You can also experiment with dynamics (loud and soft) to add expressiveness to your playing. For a fun and interactive learning experience, you might enjoy the Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-key light-up Bluetooth keyboard. This portable and expandable piano is perfect for aspiring musicians and can sync with your devices, making practice sessions more engaging.

Benefits: This song helps improve note recognition and finger dexterity, especially when paired with the right resources.

Product Recommendations:
• Thompson’s easiest piano course (part 1): revised edition
• Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-key light-up Bluetooth keyboard
• beginner piano sheet music collection

3. ‘Chopsticks’

‘Chopsticks’ is a fun piece that everyone loves to play. It’s great for practicing your finger independence and coordination. The catchy rhythm makes it enjoyable for both the player and the audience.

The piece consists of a simple two-finger melody that’s easy to memorize. Start with the notes C and D for the right hand, while the left hand plays A and B. As you get the hang of it, you can add variations and even challenge a friend to play along!

To help improve your skills further, consider using the virtuoso pianist in sixty exercises. This book is excellent for developing finger strength and dexterity, which is crucial for perfecting your performance of ‘Chopsticks’ and other pieces.

Keep your fingers relaxed while playing to avoid stiffness. Playing this song at different tempos can also help develop your skills. A great resource to guide your practice is Thompson’s easiest piano course (part 1): revised edition, which offers structured lessons and tips that can enhance your overall playing technique.

Benefits: This piece enhances rhythm and timing skills and is a great way to show off at gatherings.

Product Recommendations:
• Piano Finger Exercises Book
• Beginner Piano Songbook: Easy Piano Sheet Music for Kids and Adults
• Piano Practice Journal for Beginners

4. ‘Let It Be’ – The Beatles

Moving on to ‘Let It Be’ by The Beatles, this song resonates with many and is a wonderful choice for beginners. Its simple chord progression is perfect for learning to accompany yourself while singing or playing.

Start with the chords C, G, Am, and F. To help you master these chords effectively, you might consider using a piano chord chart. This A4 size reference guide will be a handy tool as you play around with the rhythm to capture the song’s emotional vibe. It’s great for practicing chord transitions and finger positioning while creating a beautiful melody.

Play with a steady tempo and focus on smooth transitions between the chords. If you’re looking for a structured way to build your skills, check out Thompson’s easiest piano course (part 1): revised edition. This beginner piano book offers a clear pathway to learning essential techniques that will enhance your musical ability.

Try singing along to reinforce memory and feel. The benefits of playing ‘Let It Be’ include improving your ability to play chords fluently and encouraging musicality.

Product Recommendations:
• piano chord chart
• beginner piano book
• metronome for practice

5. ‘Canon in D’ – Pachelbel

‘Canon in D’ is a stunning piece that sounds intricate but is quite accessible for beginners. The repetitive chord progression is both soothing and captivating, making it a beautiful option for piano practice.

Begin with the chords D, A, Bm, F#m, G, D, G, A. This will help you get the hang of the flowing pattern. To aid your learning, consider picking up Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition, which is designed specifically for beginners and can guide you through essential techniques at a great price.

Once you feel comfortable with the chords, try adding in the melody to create a fuller sound. Practicing hands separately before combining them is a great strategy. If you’re looking for a more interactive experience, the Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-Key Light-Up Bluetooth Keyboard offers a fun and engaging way to learn. Its light-up keys and connectivity with apps can enhance your practice sessions and keep you motivated.

Consider experimenting with dynamics to give the piece more depth. This practice not only develops your musical ear but also strengthens your ability to play in harmony, essential skills that will make you sound like a pro in no time!

Product Recommendations:
• Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-Key Light-Up Bluetooth Keyboard
• Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course: Lesson Book 1

6. ‘Happy Birthday’

Everyone loves a good birthday song, and “Happy Birthday” is an essential piece for any aspiring pianist. This song offers a fantastic opportunity to practice playing for special occasions, making it a useful skill to have.

The melody is straightforward, sticking to G, D, C, and back to G. It’s easily recognized, so when you play it at a party, you’ll be the star of the show! Plus, mastering this song is a great confidence booster.

To help you on your journey, consider picking up Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition. This beginner piano book will guide you through the basics and make learning songs like “Happy Birthday” easier and more enjoyable.

Don’t rush; take your time to nail the timing. You can also add a left-hand accompaniment for more fullness. If you’re looking for a fun, interactive way to enhance your skills, the Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-Key Light-Up Bluetooth Keyboard might be just what you need. This portable and expandable piano is perfect for aspiring musicians and allows you to connect with learning apps, making practice even more engaging.

Strengthening your ability to play melodies and improving your timing with these resources will surely pay off during birthday celebrations!

Product Recommendations:
• Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition
• Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-Key Light-Up Bluetooth Keyboard
• Hal Leonard Piano Lessons Made Easy Level 1

7. ‘Jingle Bells’

‘Jingle Bells’ is not just for Christmas! This fun and energetic song is a crowd-pleaser all year round. Its upbeat tempo and playful melody make it a joy to learn.

Start by learning the main melody with notes E, E, E, E, E, E, E, G, C, D, E. Once you know the tune, it’s easy to add in left-hand chords to create an accompaniment that suits the festive vibe. A great resource to help you get started is Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition. This beginner piano book provides clear instructions and will guide you through the basics, making your learning experience smoother.

Practice with a metronome to keep a steady tempo. I recommend the IronTree Mechanical Metronome with Free Bag. It’s an excellent tool for developing your timing and rhythm skills. You can also try adding a little swing to the rhythm for extra flair!

Benefits: This piece helps you develop rhythm skills while bringing joy to any gathering.

Product Recommendations:
• Yamaha P-45 Digital Piano
• Hal Leonard Piano Lessons Book
• Korg B2 Digital Piano

8. ‘A Thousand Years’ – Christina Perri

For a more contemporary touch, “A Thousand Years” is a beautiful ballad that captures deep emotions. Its gentle melody and harmonic richness make it a favorite among beginners. To get started, consider picking up Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition. This beginner piano book provides foundational skills and techniques that will help you grasp the chord progression, which is fairly simple: C, G, A minor, and F. This offers a lovely backdrop for the melody, allowing you to learn step by step.

As you practice, you’ll notice that the song’s structure repeats, making it easier to memorize. You can also enhance your learning experience with the Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-Key Light-Up Bluetooth Keyboard. This portable and expandable piano is ideal for aspiring musicians and connects wirelessly to your devices, providing a dynamic learning environment.

Pay attention to the dynamics and expressiveness while you play. Don’t shy away from adding your personal touch to the piece! These products not only enhance your emotional connection to music but also improve your ability to express feelings through playing.

Product Recommendations:
• Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition
• Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-Key Light-Up Bluetooth Keyboard
• Hal Leonard Piano Songbook: 50 Most Beautiful Songs for Piano

9. ‘For Elise’ – Beethoven

‘For Elise’ is a well-loved piece that is both charming and accessible for beginners. Its recognizable melody makes it a must-learn for any aspiring pianist.

The first section starts with E, D#, E, D#, E, B, D, C, A. Don’t let the complexity intimidate you; break it down into smaller sections to master each part. With practice, you’ll find that it flows quite naturally.

To assist with your learning, consider using a piano finger positioning chart. This handy tool provides visual guidance on where to place your fingers, helping you develop muscle memory for the notes in ‘For Elise.’

Also, focus on your finger positioning to facilitate smooth transitions. A great resource for structured learning is Thompson’s easiest piano course (part 1): revised edition. This beginner piano book offers a step-by-step approach that can build your confidence and skills as you learn pieces like this classic.

Finally, try playing at different tempos to challenge yourself, and a metronome can be incredibly beneficial for this. Using a metronome will help you keep a steady beat and improve your timing, essential skills for any pianist.

Working on these aspects will not only strengthen your finger dexterity but also help you with playing dynamics effectively. Happy practicing!

Product Recommendations:
• piano finger positioning chart
• Thompson’s easiest piano course (part 1): revised edition
• metronome

10. ‘Stand By Me’ – Ben E. King

‘Stand By Me’ features a lovely chord progression that is easy to learn and perfect for practicing accompaniment. The song’s soulful vibe is sure to resonate with anyone.

You’ll be using the chords A, F#m, D, and E. Start by practicing each chord separately before putting them together while playing the melody. This helps improve your confidence when switching chords. For a great resource, consider getting the Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition, which provides fundamental techniques and guides you through learning the basics.

Focus on playing steadily while maintaining an expressive sound. You can also throw in some arpeggios for added texture. To assist in mastering the chords visually, a Piano Chord Chart Reference Guide can be extremely helpful. This A4-sized chart allows you to see the finger placements clearly, making it easier to practice.

Additionally, if you’re looking to enhance your practice sessions, a Piano Practice Pad is a great tool. This portable guide includes a teaching aid and a music book clip, making it perfect for beginners who want to have a structured approach to learning the keys.

By using these resources, you not only develop timing and coordination but also create a supportive musical environment for the melody.

Product Recommendations:
• Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition
• Piano Chord Chart Reference Guide
• Piano Practice Pad

11. ‘Lean on Me’ – Bill Withers

‘Lean on Me’ is a soulful anthem about support and friendship, making it a wonderful choice to learn. The song’s simple chord structure encourages players to express themselves musically.

The chords are C, E minor, A minor, and G. To assist you in mastering these chords, consider using the piano chord chart. This handy reference guide, sized A4, will help you visualize and practice the chords effectively.

Practice each section separately before blending them together for a complete sound. Singing along can also help you internalize the melody. As you learn, the Beginner piano book can provide structured lessons and reinforce your understanding of the fundamentals.

Emphasize the dynamics to capture the song’s emotional essence. Don’t hesitate to add personal flourishes as you become more comfortable. This song not only strengthens your ability to play chords smoothly but also encourages emotional engagement with the music.

Product Recommendations:
• piano chord chart
• beginner piano book

12. ‘Someone Like You’ – Adele

‘Someone Like You’ is a heartfelt ballad that resonates with many. This song offers a fantastic opportunity to practice your playing style while capturing deep emotions. To help you on this journey, consider using a piano chord chart. This handy reference guide will assist you in mastering the chords A, E, F#m, and D, which serve as your foundation for the piece.

The song’s repetitive structure allows you to gradually build confidence while playing the melody. Take your time to explore the emotional depth that this piece can offer. Additionally, if you’re looking for a more hands-on approach, investing in a weighted key digital piano can enhance your practice experience. The touch sensitivity of an 88-key instrument allows for more expressive playing, making it easier to convey the nuanced feelings of the song.

Focus on smooth transitions and expressive playing. Try playing the chords lightly at first and gradually build up to a stronger sound. To refine your skills further, consider picking up Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition. This beginner piano book is a great resource that can guide you through various techniques to enhance your playing.

By incorporating these tools into your practice, you’ll not only improve your technical skills but also deepen your connection to the emotions behind the notes.

Product Recommendations:
• piano chord chart
• weighted key digital piano
• Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition

13. ‘You Are My Sunshine’

‘You Are My Sunshine’ brings a nostalgic warmth that is cherished by many. This sweet song is simple yet enchanting, making it ideal for beginners.

The melody can be played using the notes C, C, C, G, E, D. Its gentle rhythm allows for easy practice while focusing on expression. Play around with the tempo to give it your unique touch.

To further enhance your learning experience, consider using Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition. This beginner piano book is designed to build a solid foundation, making it easier for you to tackle songs like ‘You Are My Sunshine’.

Experiment with dynamics to bring out the song’s sweetness. You can also try adding a left-hand accompaniment to enhance the sound.

Benefits: Develops musicality and emotional connection while reinforcing note recognition.

Product Recommendations:
• Beginner piano books
• piano lesson apps.

14. ‘Ode to Joy’ – Beethoven

‘Ode to Joy’ is a classic piece that introduces beginners to classical music. Its recognizable and uplifting melody is perfect for practicing note reading and rhythm. To assist with your learning, consider using Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition, a great resource that breaks down essential techniques and pieces for beginners.

Start with the notes E, E, F, G, G, F, E, D, C. Once you get comfortable, try adding dynamics to create a more expressive performance. This piece is great for building confidence in classical repertoire. To help you improve your timing, using an accurate IronTree Mechanical Metronome with Free Bag (Teak) can enhance your rhythmic precision as you practice.

Break the piece into smaller sections, mastering each before bringing them together. Playing slowly helps solidify your understanding. Overall, ‘Ode to Joy’ not only improves rhythmic precision and note recognition skills but also offers a delightful taste of classical music.

Product Recommendations:
• Piano keyboard stickers for beginners
• adjustable piano bench
• beginner piano songbook with popular melodies

15. ‘What a Wonderful World’ – Louis Armstrong

‘What a Wonderful World’ is a timeless classic that resonates with its simple beauty. Its slow tempo and heartfelt lyrics create a serene atmosphere, making it a joy to play. To start your journey with this piece, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the chords C, Am, F, and G, which provide a solid foundation.

Consider using the piano chord chart, which is easy to use and carries one chord on every page, making it a handy reference as you learn the basic chord progression. Once you feel comfortable with the chords, you can begin adding the melody. This piece is all about expressing gratitude, so take your time to connect with the music.

As you practice, focus on the phrasing and expressiveness in your playing. Explore dynamics to capture the essence of the song. To track your progress and reflect on your emotional connection to the music, a practice journal like the piano practice journal can be invaluable. It allows you to jot down thoughts and observations about your playing, enhancing your emotional engagement.

If you’re looking for structured guidance, consider the beginner piano book, which provides clear instructions tailored for beginners. This resource can help you build a deeper connection to the music and develop your skills further.

By incorporating these tools into your practice, you’ll not only enhance your playing but also enrich your overall musical experience.

Product Recommendations:
• piano chord chart
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• beginner piano book

16. ‘Here Comes the Sun’ – The Beatles

‘Here Comes the Sun’ is a bright and uplifting song that can instantly lift anyone’s spirits. It features simple chords and a catchy melody, making it perfect for beginners.

The chords are A, Bm, D, G, and A7. Focus on each chord’s transitions while experimenting with the melody. This song is all about feeling good, so let that joy shine through in your playing!

To help you maintain an even tempo, consider using a metronome, like the IronTree Mechanical Metronome with Free Bag (Teak). It’s an essential tool for developing your rhythmic skills and will ensure you stay on track as you practice.

Additionally, incorporating dynamics into your playing can really add depth to the performance. Once you’re comfortable, challenge yourself to play it faster!

For further guidance, you might find the Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition invaluable. It’s designed specifically for beginners and can help solidify your foundational skills, making your journey into playing songs like this even more enjoyable.

Overall, this song not only encourages a positive playing experience but also enhances your rhythmic abilities. Happy playing!

Product Recommendations:
• IronTree Mechanical Metronome
• Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition
• beginner piano songbooks

17. ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ – Elvis Presley

‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ is an iconic love song that’s perfect for beginners looking to dive into romantic tunes. Its simple yet enchanting melody makes it a joy to learn.

To help you get started, consider picking up Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition. This beginner piano book provides a great foundation for understanding the basics of piano playing, making it easier to learn songs like this one.

You’ll use the chords C, Em, Am, F, C, G, and C. As you practice, focus on the melody while incorporating the chords for a fuller sound. The repetition in the song makes it easy to memorize. For an additional reference while you practice, a piano chord chart can be a valuable resource, allowing you to quickly glance at the chords you need.

Work on playing expressively, allowing the music to flow naturally. Singing along can further enhance your understanding of the piece, helping you connect emotionally to the music.

Benefits: Encourages emotional expression and builds confidence in playing.

Product Recommendations:
• piano keyboard
• beginner piano sheet music
• digital piano with weighted keys

18. ‘Over the Rainbow’ – Judy Garland

‘Over the Rainbow’ is a beautiful, dreamy piece that captures a sense of wonder. Its flowing melody makes it a fantastic addition to your repertoire.

The chords C, E minor, A minor, D7, and G7 provide a solid foundation to build upon. As you work on mastering each section, consider using a beginner piano book like Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition to guide you through the learning process. This resource simplifies the complexities of piano playing for newcomers.

Take your time to connect with the emotions behind the music. Experimenting with dynamics will help bring out the dreamlike quality of the piece. A piano chord chart can serve as a quick reference to ensure you’re playing the correct chords as you explore different expressions.

Additionally, tracking your progress in a piano practice journal can enhance your ability to convey emotion through music and improve your overall musical expression. This journal will help you stay organized and focused on your growth as a pianist.

Enjoy the journey of learning this enchanting piece!

Product Recommendations:
• beginner piano book
• piano chord chart
• piano practice journal

19. ‘Firework’ – Katy Perry

‘Firework’ is an energetic and inspiring song perfect for boosting your confidence as a beginner pianist. Its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics make it a fun challenge!

To get started, use the chords C, G, Am, and F. Practicing these chord changes will set a solid foundation, and you can layer in the melody as you progress. It’s a great idea to have a visual reference for the chords, so consider using a piano chord chart. This handy guide will help you quickly identify the chords and make your practice sessions smoother.

‘Firework’ encourages self-expression, so feel free to add your flair! As you practice, focus on playing with energy and confidence. A piano practice journal can also be beneficial; it allows you to track your progress and set goals for each practice session.

As you master the song, consider adding some syncopation to make it even more exciting. This song not only builds confidence in performance but also encourages personal interpretation of the music, making it a fulfilling piece to play.

Product Recommendations:
• piano chord chart
• piano practice journal
• beginner piano songbook

20. ‘Let It Go’ – Idina Menzel

‘Let It Go’ from Disney’s Frozen is a powerful ballad that many love to sing along with. Learning this song not only enhances your piano skills but also boosts vocal performance, making it a fantastic choice for beginners.

The chord progression is C, G, Am, and F, which serves as a solid base for the song. To get started, consider using Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition. This beginner piano book is designed to help you master the fundamentals, allowing you to focus on the melody before blending in chords as you become more comfortable.

Remember, this song is about liberation, so let your emotions shine through while you play! Work on your dynamics to capture the song’s emotional intensity. If you’re looking for an interactive approach, the Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-Key Light-Up Bluetooth Keyboard can be a great addition to your learning experience. This portable and expandable piano connects with an app to enhance your practice sessions, making it easier to develop both instrumentally and vocally.

Don’t hesitate to sing along for extra practice—it’s a great way to build confidence in your performance!

Product Recommendations:
• Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course (Part 1): Revised Edition
• Gemini Sound PianoProdigy 24-Key Light-Up Bluetooth Keyboard
• Hal Leonard Piano Lessons Book for Beginners

21. ‘The Entertainer’ – Scott Joplin

‘The Entertainer’ is a lively ragtime piece that’s fun to play and sounds impressive. While it’s a bit more complex, it’s a great challenge for beginner pianists eager to expand their skills.

To help you master this piece, consider using a sturdy piano keyboard stand and chair set. This will provide you with the proper posture and comfort needed to focus on practicing effectively.

Focus on mastering the left-hand stride and right-hand melody separately before combining them. The syncopated rhythm and lively tempo make it a delightful piece to perform. To enhance your learning experience, the eMedia Piano and Keyboard Method v3 offers over 150 additional lessons that can help you develop your skills further, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the nuances of ragtime.

Be patient as you learn; ragtime requires practice to master. Work on timing to get the feel just right, and for more structured learning, check out Really Easy Piano 50 Popular Songs for beginner-friendly sheet music that can help you build confidence as you play.

Engaging with these resources not only enhances your musicality and rhythm but also provides an exciting challenge. Happy playing!

Product Recommendations:
• piano keyboard stand
• Really Easy Piano 50 Popular Songs

Conclusion

With these 21 easy piano tutorials, you have the perfect starting point to embark on your musical journey. Each song not only sounds great but also helps build essential skills you’ll use as you progress. Remember, the key to mastering the piano is practice and patience. Keep exploring and expanding your repertoire, and before you know it, you’ll be playing like a pro!

Feel free to share your progress or favorite songs in the comments. Happy playing!

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