little bit-o-piano

When we ask people where to start with Finn's drumming, the answer always comes back the same: learn piano. Whatever is learned on piano, such as reading music, can be applied to other instruments. I don't know many drummers who are interested in the piano and Finn is kind of young for lessons, but we do have 2 pianos(one from each of our grandmas).

John printed letters and taped them under the corresponding piano keys.
This piano even has a handy door that can hide these letters.

We are not doing much more than teaching the boys chop-sticks and "hey look, it's the middle c!" I don't know if anything will ever come of it, but the boys are learning a little here and there, even if they don't realize it. I don't want them to burn out on something that's forced on them. When I took lessons, my mom never forced me to practice. I played when I was in the mood, which was usually an hour before lessons:) I really love the piano and would be thrilled if one day they wanted to play. I don't practice as much as I should--as Elizabeth from Pride and Prejudice says "I play very ill indeed".

Finn playing chop-sticks

notice Tommy in the background

I think the boys are enjoying the piano in little pint-sized doses. I would love it if piano was a natural part of their life--like learning to tie their shoes.