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I just viewed your DVD, "Play Piano in a Flash." Many years ago, after having taken violin lessons, I taught myself to play piano the "traditional" way. Soon after, I discovered that I could get excellent results by just playing the chords along with the melody! I was afraid to share my discovery with other pianists for fear that they would laugh and consider me to be lazy. However, with the chord method, I developed the speed and ease that helped me to become the music teacher/pianist at the elementary school from which I recently retired! When I read about your method, and about your book, CD and DVD describing that method, I purchased them. Although I had already familiarized myself with your method, I was fascinated with all of the "cheap tricks" that you taught, which I did not already know. I quickly ran to my piano, which is in the same room as my DVD player, and tried each trick as you demonstrated it. Now I plan to use your method to teach my husband, who knows absolutely nothing about playing music, how to play the piano. I will begin by asking him to name a favorite song that he would like to play. Thanks again for your great methods and ideas!
Anonymous

I really enjoyed the class--it was just what I needed. My husband bought me a keyboard for an anniversary present. That was almost two weeks ago and I have tried to play a little every day (I'm taking my last MBA class right now so that gets top priority). My goal is to have a repertoire of Christmas Carols by December. I'm looking forward to the newsletters!
Saundra Michael-Bowers

Hi Scott, I saw your presentation on PBS and was amazed at the simplicity and the excellent way you teach how to play piano. I will be ordering one of your programs shortly as I want to give it as a gift for a birthday in June. Again, wonderful presentation and a sincere thanks!
Marce

I am hooked on piano thanks to your workshop at Parkland College in Champaign, IL on Sept. 27. Thanks so much for simplifying piano technique, which has always been overwhelming to me. Thanks again.
M. Misner, Champaign, IL

Hi Scott, I saw you demonstrating your method for piano playing on television today and was very impressed. I was glued to the TV and didn't want to miss a beat! LOL . I live in Clearwater, Florida and would love to attend your workshop in September to St. Augustine. I currently write and record childrens' songs as well as other styles of music and have learned to play the piano myself in somewhat the way you do. My husband plays the guitar and often gives me guidance. Every time I write a new song he always says to just start out with the chords first, and then add all the other stuff. Hey, it works. I think it's great that you are able to give people the gift of learning how to play because it can fill one's soul with such contentment and peace. You have such a funny sense of humor and you explain everything in an easy to understand way. I look forward to seeing you in St. Augustine.
Anonymous

Hi Scott, I got your VHS tape and have learned how to play so quickly it's unbelievable. You truly have broken down an easy way to play. I've played guitar for years and always wished I could play the piano but never wanted to take all the lessons that I would need to be able sound any good. Within minutes of watching your instructional video I was able to walk up to my keyboard and write a song that actually sounded pretty good. My wife then comes around the corner asking me how the heck I was able to start playing so quickly and told me how good it sounded. I know I am probably a special case because in playing the guitar for a while I already understood the basics of music, but I can honestly say your video totally put it all in an easy perspective. I do have one question for you. I have seen you on KCET a few times and you always seem to be playing a type of music that I'm not sure what to call it. It's kind of that kind of lounge music soft Jazz type stuff. I've heard it when I go to the mall, and they have a guy playing the piano in the courtyard, It just sounds great. Could you tell me what style it is and where I could find music like that to play. I would really appreciate it if you could let me know when you get a chance. Thanks so much.
J. Morris

You're a lifesaver! I downloaded My Funny Valentine and ran into some of these chords.You've explained what I searched for hours and couldn't find on the Internet.Again, the book is fantastic, and I'm having more fun on the piano than I have had in years.
B. Hickstein, St. Pete, FL

Hello Scott, I'm not surprised your TV show is such a hit. Since I took your course, I've had countless hours of fun playing I never thought possible. My wife is even beginning to recognize some of the songs. One of the reasons I took the class is I've heard that as you age, it helps to learn new skills to keep your mind active. Whether it helps or not only time will tell, but in the mean time I've had a lot of fun with the piano. When I was growing up we had an old piano, but couldn't afford lessons, so I would try to pick out tunes. My mother said many times she wished I could have taken piano lessons. My mother passed away last August and each time I sit down to practice I think of her and wish I had discovered your method years earlier. Of course if I had taken regular lessons I might have still been on book one. I did watch the special on our local PBS station Sunday on channel 9 from St. Louis and recommended it to everyone. I am trying to get my sister to attend the session when you are back at Lewis and Clark Community College in June. I hope you don't become so successful that you don't have time to continue your classes in person. But then that would be great to be that successful and I wish you the best. Thanks again for the gift of being able to play.
J. Hiatt, Godfrey, IL

Hi Scott: Just wanted to say I'm enjoying the materials we got from you. I'm 60 years old and have been like you playing drums from way back in High School to the present. I started out at a young age taking piano lessons and did learn a little I guess, I can at least find middle C. However the choice between a good game of ball with the boys or practicing piano, you know how this goes! Now I have a musical family all piano players, my mother is 89 and still can play quite well. The other day she asked me to play something for her so I went armed with your book to play. I started from the front of the book and played a few of the pieces I had been working on. The next thing I know, she is wanting to know where some of the cords I was using were. She thought I was sounding pretty good!! I've played in music festivals when I was a kid and can play some in the classic style but it never was as much fun as this style. Glad I caught you on PBS. Keep up the good work. Thanks
Reg

I am a B+ amateur player. I love Scot\'s program, especially when guests play for fun. I feel like it could be me as a guest but am picking up little hints, tips and reviewing other styles. Love Scott's style. He could be a piano buddy of mine. I DVR every show and watch parts over and over. Then race for the piano to work out a new chord or style. This is real fun. Thanks Scott for your great niche show, ideal whether beginner, amateur or pro!
Ken A., Greenwood, SC

Dear Scott, I wanted to send you a thank you card, but I couldn't find an address for you. Anyway, I want to thank you for helping me to achieve my dream of learning to play the piano. I've tried to learn all my life, but it was too hard. We have an old 1920's piano in our old farm house. I love to play every day from my fake books! I'm on three years now! Saw you on PBS out of Sacramento, CA.
Constance S., Sacramento, CA

My name is Agnes Hollander. I have been playing piano since the age 7. I am now in my mid 50's. I am from Budapest Hungary, where I have studied classical piano. I came to the US at age 13, and here I have studied piano as well. When I got married I completely put my piano studies to the side. I actually have not played for more than 20 years. I bought a Yamaha key board and strated retraining myself. I have watched your show on PBS and found your program incredibly helpful. I am now back playing bossa nova, jazz and most popular standards.I have also worked for Fletcher Music store, here in Bradenton Florida, selling Lowery organs. I have been on the organ now,the Rhapsody model, which is Lowery's excellent organ. I am in the travel industry now, but I am playing the keyboard as much as I can. I am up until 2 am most nights, with my headset on, playing my favorite music.Your method has helped me immensily, to retrain myself. Thank You so much for your wonderful program. I have signed up for your newsletter.My passion is playing the key board.Thank you for the wonderful programs!
A. Hollander, Bradenton FL

Thank you! You have quite an accomplished organization going, and it is obvious you are working thoroughly to have the success you do in sharing music with people. Here is where I am coming from - I have a degree in music education: my teacher wanted me to go to Eastman but I did not want to practice: I play by ear, read, have taught piano for 1-3 levels, and am looking to teach again. I also wrote music for tv documentaries and have awards for those. I have also provided arrangements and performance for local amateur variety-parody shows in St. Louis which raised money. I have played out for private parties, but not in a long time. I currently play on a rotating basis at one of the hospitals in the atrium of the doctors building. My own style has very much been restricted to laid back ballads (Mysty, etc.) , and I was quite leary when I put the DVD (from the library - sorry no buy yet) player. I had seen your show on TV occasionally and rarely listened to the entire program (my loss for sure as I know now - btw, your program The Piano Guy does not seem to be airing in St. Louis to which I am most disappointed. I say that because after watching the first six chapters of Tips, Cheap Tricks & Professional Secrets, I found myself going to the piano, and whoa, blues started to happen with both hands like never before. Now I want you also to know I have taken jazz lessons - some from some excellent teachers, but it was not until you shared with me and your guests the way to enjoy it, that I felt the freedom to let go and let play happen. Since my playing has largely revolved around arpeggiated bass (groan, I know), this has been like a window opening for me. I was even fired by one of the best jazz teachers in the area as he told me he had never had a person who plays by ear be able to cross over into jazz, because one needs to think the patterns, etc. through before putting fingers on the keys. So I backed off for a long time. All of a sudden this morning, I was really having fun playing the keys and doing things I had never done before. At this point I don't think I could duplicate all of it, but it was great. I was having a ball! I will keep going at it, believe me, as it was too much fun! Thank you so very much. I will be checking out your website more. I wish your program would air in St. Louis. You seem to be covering all the bases for sure, and making sure that is not only fun, but self satisfying in giving the joy of playing back to oneself and those who listen. You are COOL! P.S. You told me I COULD do it! Best wishes,
L. Mendelsohn, Chesterfield, MO

Dear Scott, First of all, thanks for a revolutionary system. Without it, I would probably have abandoned playing long ago. Now I'm getting pretty good at playing and enjoying it at the same time. Thanks again.
J.J. Laplace

I bought your book a few months ago, and it totally changed how I feel about learning how to play the piano! It was amazingly easy to understand and fun to read. So much stuff finally makes sense to me. You are awesome!
Rossanna

Hi Scott, For many years I wanted to play the piano so I could play my father's songs to family and friends. Well, that didn't happen. Life got in the way, and I pretty much forgot about playing any instrument. Wella, last March I watched your show,and with some scepticism, bought "Piano In A Flash." Here it is a few months later and not only can I play, "Everything Happens To Me," "Let's Get Away For It Al,l" I can Play songs from "The Piano Guy's Favorite Fake Book, songs for the grandkids and rock and roll from the 1950's. I've even written an original melody for my wife of 42 years. I am 65 and have been able to do many cool things in my life. Learning your method of piano playing is one of the best and definitely the most fun! THANKS!! M Adair
M Adair,

Dear Scott: I'm really enjoying the Comcast On Demand piano tips! Great idea! Keep those clips and tips coming! they are great!
Bob

I received your book and it's every bit as good as everyone says. I am very inspired and motivated by it thus far.
George H.

Scott, Continue to do what you do best, give those of us with ten thumbs hope! My playing is taking off, and it is due to you. You are becoming America's Piano Coach! Keep up the wonderful job and when you get dissenting opinions in the form of "disturbing" emails from people (which unfortunately is the price of fame) just think of the company you keep... St. Paul, St. Peter, and even our Lord! The cross always seems heavier during Lent. Continue to shine your gifts on people. Thanks from on who appreciates what you do. I eagerly await Tips and tricks - Volume 3!!
M. Buono, Jupiter, FL

I am based in the Greater Toronto Area, Ontario (Bolton,) Canada and watch your TV show on WNED Buffalo every Saturday at 10.00am. Thank you for a wonderful program. I have returned to the keyboard after a 15 year absence and am having a lot of fun learning all over again. Best Regards
R. Baldock

I just wanted to "thank you" for assisting me in being able to do something that I have wanted to do since I was in the 5th grade. (Don't tell anyone, but I'm 63). When I was in the 5th grade, it was considered "Sissy" for a guy to play piano, thus, I became an athlete. On the off-season, I enrolled in my high school band and became quite adept at playing the trumpet, so I had the ability to read music. In addition to extending my appreciation, I want you to know that I have become quite proficient at playing THE BLUES. Man, us black dudes dig the blues. I am now proceeding towards jazz. That is really my goal. Thus far, I am working on Miles Davis' "All Blues" and I seem to have Herbie Hancock's version of "Watermelon Man" pretty good. I'm happier than shit (pardon the candor!) I'm having a bit of problem with finding the fifth, sixth and ninth cords, but I'm about to order your chord finder so, perhaps that will eliminate that problem. Again, many thanks and I'm always on the lookout for your programs.
Zack

I took your class last week. What a gift you have for combining learning with humor. For two years I took piano lessons and practiced as much as I could only to be discouraged and finally gave up believing only "gifted people" could play. One day I said to myself, "There must be a better way to learn this, and if I do I am going to teach it to others.” I was so worried about which notes to play with both hands and using time measures that I forgot to "enjoy" the process of playing. I feel like I have been let out of prison. I now realize how much I really had learned. I can honestly say I am now enjoying playing instead of dreading it. I don't know if I will ever be really good at it, but it doesn’t matter because I'm having fun. And isn't that we're supposed to be doing after all? Thanks so very much for sharing your humor, enthusiasm and talents with me. And hopefully one day I'll be able to pass it along. I just ordered my first "fake book" so I'm on my way!
J. Peters

I just turned on PBS and heard you speak about the medical benefits of playing the piano. I'd like to share my experience with you. I had developed Carpel Tunnel Syndrome from using the computer. Then, after over 20 years, I recently started playing my piano again. I found that the pain in my arm disappeared after I played the piano. I also felt relaxed and energized after playing. So, my cure for Carpel Tunnel came from playing the piano. I know someone who had surgery for this, and still has pain. Maybe people who suffer from this should take your course before they consider surgery!
B. Fettinger

Hey Scott,   I am 74 years old and have wanted, all my life, to be able to set down and play anything on the piano. Thanks to your wonderful appearances on public TV broadcasts I am now able to read and play tunes, slowly and sometimes not too recognizable,  from the lead sheets you sent me, but I am improving daily.  I have been doing this for only two months but have already realized some of the joy and sense of accomplishment I have wanted all those years. Please keep giving others the same opportunity.   Sincerely,
A. Pearson

You are the best!! I watched one of your PBS television shows about a year ago. I could not play but always wanted to and like many, I thought I could never learn because I had no musical talent. After I watched you, I purchased an electronic keyboard. Within a few weeks, I was able to play enough that I contacted a nearby nursing home and offered to be a volunteer and play music for the residents. I have gone on many occasions and it is the greatest thing! To see the look on their faces when I play a familiar song is an incredible feeling. I am not a great player but I can play for my family, friends and even play in public. Two weeks ago, I played keyboard during the Social Hour for my church's silent auction dinner. I attended a workshop of yours a few months ago and while there, met another attendee who told me she always wanted to play, but had no idea if she could. If you can believe this, she is now my piano student! She plays pretty well and is thrilled that she can play for herself and her family. I owe all this to you. You are wonderful. Please keep doing what you are doing, you have brought so much joy to so many. God bless you.
B. Chambers

You are truly a great teacher and motivator! If every teacher, regardless of their persuasion, had your passion, then learning would be an exciting, exhilarating adventure and not a bore. Thanks a million, Scott!
Tony

I'm 62, In January I puchased a Yamaha Clavinova, bought a lot of "how to" books, BUT in December 2004 I purchased your book from Amazon. Needless to say, after reading your book, I purchased your Favorites and Holiday Songs Fake Book along with the Ultimate Christmas Fake Book from your site. NOW, I realize I could have saved a lot of money AND frustration, if I would have purchased your books in the beginning. Thanks so much for creating "Favorites and Holiday Songs Fake Book"!!!
N. Woodcox

Hi, Scott, I understand it's a business and feedback is just part of it, but I still would like to say that I can't thank you enough for your "system". I guess I am part of the most desired market share - middle-aged upper middle-class guy. I never played piano in my life and always wanted to. I gave it a couple of tries, but all other programs didn't work for me - then I happened to see you on TV. Now my happiest moments are when I go to the piano, put on my headphones, and "play" my keyboard. I wouldn't let anyone listen to it, at least not yet, but who cares? I am the happiest man! Seriously, I really appreciate what you did for me and my life. My dreams are coming true - Thank you so much. I am telling everybody I know about you. Beside making a living you are doing something very important for so many people. I wish I could say the same. Sincerely,
V. Gitt

Hi Scott, I'm that trumpet player from Charleston. This year is almost over and when I look back over all that has happened to me, the best thing was taking the piano class with you at ETV in Columbia, SC. Piano has brought so much enjoyment into my life. I practice daily. I thoroughly enjoy being home at night, going into my music room, putting on the headphones and practicing piano. I am working on about 4 songs right now. Two of them I have almost memorized. Every time I practice, I learn something new. Chord changes/progressions have taken on a whole new meaning. I've learned a lot about melody lines - you don't need a lot of differnt notes and rhythms to make a great melody. In short, thank you for this gift which will not only last forever, but will get better all of the time. Peace,
W Andrus

Hi Scott, I watched your video over the weekend and was very skeptical. I took formal piano lessons for two years and gave up because I wasn't really making "fun" progress if you know what I mean. I watched the first bit of your video thinking it was somehow just an unbelievable speel, but then I sat down and started playing a few notes...blues first. I printed out Begin the Beguine and In a Sentimental Mood (which you play in the video) and was able to pick them out...I threw in a few cheap tricks, and I'm hooked. Many thanks for putting the fun back into the piano! Sincerely,
Derek

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