Piano Guidance
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Should I learn piano or violin first?

Piano is much easier than violin to start with. You still need a teacher for good technique, but you can get them in later when you have some basic competence. Piano also sets up a lot of skills (musical score, for instance) which are generally portable to other instruments, so it's a pretty good choice.

What is the sad chord?
What is the sad chord?

i-i/7-IV/b4-VI And chord progressions with descending bass lines often make great sad songs, there is something about moving down in notes that...

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Do keycaps affect switch feel?
Do keycaps affect switch feel?

If you want highly customized keycaps, you should expect it to affect the overall keyboard feel. The sound/noise from the keyboard mainly depends...

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Is it too late for me to learn an instrument?

No. It's never to old to learn anything. Having the determination and persistence to continue is the hard part. It might be harder for you to learn as your brain isn't as flexible as it was. Music is a language and it will take work to learn. Don't get discouraged though!

Can I learn it by myself? Hiring a teacher is out of the question. I plan to learn by myself. If this is not possible should I give up?

Of course you can. There is a source right here for you to ask questions regarding technique, etc. But, I would recommend getting a basic theory book and an instrument book (make sure it isn't band oriented). These will give you a path to follow, then supplement with videos on YouTube, etc for other things you want to learn. There are some downsides to self learning especially if you pick violin. You will probably end up with bad posture and possibly end up not even hitting a correct note. You can probably find some sources on the internet on ways to prevent and on what proper posture and finger placement is. And, a beginner with a violin sounds VERY bad (You've been warned. :)).

My choices are violin and piano. Which is easier to learn?

My personal opinion is that the piano is easier to learn. Violin requires precise hand movements (not that the piano doesn't, but less so). It will also be easier to play, note- wise, because it should already be in tune. I also think the piano is more versatile, you rarely hear a pop song with a violin, but every song has a chord progression that can be played on the piano as you or someone else sings along.

Can pianists have long nails?
Can pianists have long nails?

While it's totally possible to play with long nails and even be a professional pianist, it's much easier to play with shorter nails. You get more...

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How long should you practice piano a day?
How long should you practice piano a day?

between 30 minutes to 4 hours Pianists should practice between 30 minutes to 4 hours per day. Beginners will benefit most from shorter practice...

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How do you know if you have synesthesia?
How do you know if you have synesthesia?

Symptoms of synesthesia involuntary perceptions that cross over between senses (tasting shapes, hearing colors, etc.) sensory triggers that...

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Who is the greatest band ever?
Who is the greatest band ever?

The 10 best rock bands ever The Beatles. The Beatles are unquestionably the best and most important band in rock history, as well as the most...

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Can I use chords that are not in key?
Can I use chords that are not in key?

Your chord progression can safely venture out of its scale by adding a non-diatonic chord, which is a chord that contains one or more notes from...

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Can you tip a piano on its side to move it?
Can you tip a piano on its side to move it?

Moving a piano on its back or on its side does not harm a piano. A piano can be moved, tilted, or rotated without doing it damage. Damage to a...

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