I am conservatory-trained as an opera singer, and I am proficient in playing guitar, harmonica and ukulele. I can read music and have a moderate knowledge of musical theory. However, proficiency in playing the piano has long been a glaring gap in my musical skill and knowledge. Through my participation in musical theatre, I have spent a great deal of time around people who play piano very well, and I have often thought that becoming at least competent myself would be a very worthwhile endeavour. In addition to being one of the best ways to accompany myself singing and an excellent mode of songwriting, playing the piano at least a little bit would allow me as a TOC to fill in for the occasional music class when they absolutely can’t find anyone better qualified.
Fortunately, I already have a keyboard right in my bedroom, which I have previously used only for finding my notes when practicing songs. I will also have no trouble finding a mentor, as many people in my life, including my dad and one of my best friends, are quite skilled on the keys.
I have opted for a mixed approach, with some written resources, some online resources, and some autodidactic techniques. To start out, I printed myself a piano chords chart and learned the basic major chords: