While we do absorb information like sponges in our formative years, we do not necessarily have the deep interest and sense of commitment that we do as we mature. That's why adulthood is a great time to learn a new activity, such as the piano. Think of it, you are making a conscious, independent decision to develop a new skill. No one is telling you, or making you, take lessons. You are studying the piano because you want to study the piano.

We tend to throw ourselves with verve into activities that interest us. That's why, if you have the interest, you can learn the piano from scratch in adulthood. Music is a great avenue for creative expression. In our fast-paced lives, learning to create music may be exactly what you need as a break from your daily routine.

The approach you take to learning the piano is important when you're an adult. In our jobs, we tend to work at a harried pace and often expect immediate results. This attitude can spill over into our music study. If you desire to learn the piano, you have to take a systematic approach and set reasonable goals.

Decide whether you want to take private lessons or self-teach. You might want to take a few lessons to get the basics down and then continue study on your own. You may choose to do web-based studies. Whatever learning method you choose will only take you as far as your attitude does.

To succeed at learning the piano from scratch, as an adult, consider these suggestions:

* Have fun. You didn't decide to take piano to add extra stress to your life. If you miss a day of practice, big deal; it means you missed a day of practice. Besides, you don't want to practice seven days a week. Piano is an interest, not your career.

* Take the first step; don't try to take five steps at once. Learn a concept or element, practice it, and then move to the next step. Trying to leapfrog steps because you're in a hurry to get to Moonlight Sonata by Beethoven will only get you frustrated. Frustration leads to giving up your dream.

* Set reasonable goals. Remember, you're new to this and you may feel overwhelmed with all that piano playing entails. Set a daily goal and focus on that alone. Do the same the next day.

* Get tips and ideas from other adults who successfully undertook piano studies. Ask them what worked best for them and what pitfalls to avoid. You will gain valuable insight into proper study methods. You will have someone you can bounce ideas off who can relate to what you're doing.

* As you progress beyond the basics, make sure you gravitate to music you enjoy, not just music the lessons tell you to play. You will continue with a lifelong study of the piano if you learn to play your favorite music.

Learning to play the piano is not just for children and teens. It is a creative pursuit for all ages. Decide today to begin your study of the piano and it will be music to your ears for tomorrow and beyond.