I recently facilitated a sing-along on the piano at my Mom’s assisted living facility. I played many oldies and I believe the residents really enjoyed it!

The songs I played were many that I played on the harp when I took my folk harp out and about (a lot!). As I practiced the piano, I made several observations. Playing the piano is entirely different than the harp! What do I mean by that?

• With the harp, you pre-set the key signature and then just play the strings; the piano you have to make sure you play the sharps and flats correctly. This may not sound like a big deal, but it felt like a brain gym activity as I practiced for the sing along!
• It is easier for me to express feelings on the harp than on the piano. So, you can imagine which I prefer!
• For the sing along, it is vital to count and keep the melody moving. When I was playing concerts (without singing), I did a lot of ad lib without always paying attention to counting, rhythm and “staying within the margins.” I prefer the ad lib approach to playing music.

So, you begin to see the differences and my preferences. That said, I did enjoy practicing and performing on the piano for my Mom’s sing along. And I have already volunteered to play the next time I visit her!