When I was young, I really wanted to learn how to play a piano. Even my mom, it was one of her dreams that I could play a piano in church. Unfortunately, that time, we didn't have enough money for me to enroll in a private piano teacher. Since I received my keyboard, I started to learn a little. At first, without knowing how to read notes, I played melodies by hearing familiar songs. Then, I learned how to play the basic major chords by the guidance of the keyboard.
It was summer before I become 6th grade when I started to have my first piano lesson in my school. Every summer, they offer activities like guitar and piano lessons, taekwando and basketball trainings, etc to the students. Good thing, they offer at the right price. So, my mom and I grabbed the opportunity. By that time, I could read notes already before I enrolled. If you're going to evaluate their teaching, it's not worth it. They will only teach a little. Actually, I already knew most of they taught. It was just that I learned the right fingerings and additional chords from them. At the end of my first recital, I received a medal unexpectedly. According to them, the one who will received a medal is the most outstanding student. After that, it was like a graduation. They don't offer any lessons during school days. So, I stopped for a while.
The real opportunity happened when I was 14 years old. I was in my 2nd year high school that time. My dad and I talked to my new piano teacher to talk about piano lesson offers. Then, a week after, I have the books that I needed and started to have my first lesson with her. I learned a lot from her. She taught me advanced lessons even my level was beginner. Until now, she was my piano teacher. Currently, I'm in level 2 or 3 in piano. I still play higher level pieces, but of course, I need time to practice those.
About 5 years ago, I had the opportunity to share my talent in piano to my niece. Her name is Chin-chin. She's now 15 years old. She was my first student. I taught her the basic principles in music. It was a short time, while she was having her summer vacation. Then, 2 years ago, we were about to continue, but she was already taken to province.
Last Friday, October 13, 2017, I experienced being a piano teacher again. It's been a while to have a legit student again. My current student is few years older than me. He is a good looking guy. My choir mates have crush on him and find him cute and handsome. According to them, he resembles the Filipino actor, Patrick Garcia. He is currently a student of Philippine Amazing Facts Center of Evangelism (PAFCOE). It is a school of evangelism in our church. His name is Ralph. I taught him basics in our first lesson. We agreed that I will only teach him the basics in piano, because I'm still a learner as well.
I'm glad to share my knowledge and talents to others. When you have the opportunity to learn new things, grab it. Our time is only limited. It will be a waste when it's too late.