Totally true, you watch these others and they show you 3 or 4 tuts then its money time, Ive only followed Zach for about 2 weeks now, and already he has made things so clear, When I get some money I will be buying from him, more as a thank you than anything else, the guy is amazing.... ;)
I’m a 80 YO piano student. Zach has been my teacher for years. One of the main reasons I’ve stuck with him is he uses the KISS principle. Simple is best! He’s a motivator. At my age I need all the motivation I can get! Zach is the best piano teacher I’ve ever had!
Thanks so much John, means the world to me, and so glad I could help. And even better, props to you for bucking the trend that older people can't learn and proving the haters wrong!!!
He's a great teacher. Very motivating and teaches the basics with tools that are productive and easy to remember. Actually got me to the point of enjoying playing.
Zack, you are amazing! Thanks for shooting me an email. I worked with your Piano University on-line a year or so ago and .... lost my MOTIVATION. You hit the nail on the head. I am retired. I have PLENTY of time. But .... I don't know how to get motivated. (Yet). So glad YOU are on You Tube! You are a one-man dynamo!
Awesome Jerry!! You'd be surprised how many people who have success with the course ARE retired folks. They say "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" but I've found that saying to be 100% false!
This guy is amazing. I am so impressed! He loves music!! And he loves to make everybody happy by teaching simple ways and not showing off with his talent!
Great job Zach . I have full access to his course become piano superhuman , It was game changer for me the secret sauce pattern is nothing comparing to what I learnt from him .the course take you literally from Zero to Hero in playing the piano . All you need is putting the time & be consistent practicing and if you do and follow his tips in the course there is no way you're not going to be a very good pianist . He did not tell me to say this in youtube or to anyone but I would say that again and again just because he really deserve it . I paid only 297$ with 70% discount that he gave me . it was one of the best decisions I have made
Hey Mohammed, so glad you're enjoying the lessons and the course. Props to you as well for really putting this stuff into practice and putting in the work to learn it, congrats! 💪💪💪
Great talk Zach. I've looked at your PSH course and bought your book on scales. I'm now 63 and a retired engineer who took up piano about a year ago. I agree that most people are far more capable of learning new skills than is commonly believed and I'm really enjoying the musical journey. Modern technology has made it easier than ever to learn music. I have an Arturia Matrix Brute synthsiser and a Casio PSX 3000 digital piano connected to my computer running Logic Pro X but I have also benefited greatly from online music teachers such as yourself. Keep up the good work.
Zach, you are so professional ! You have a natural ability to share your passion for the piano and make it 'achievable' for anyone to start their journey in learning how to play. Your course is so organised and easy to follow, it's an absolute pleasure to sit down every day to learn something new from you. You deserve this recognition from TED and I wish you the very best of everything for the future. You have put the WOW factor back into my life, for which I thank you. I am in my mid-70's and have already made good progress after a few months in learning how to play the piano. I actually feel younger every day... thanks to you.
Woohoo!! Congrats on your success! I love the stories of people who don't start till after they retire and are absolutely KILLIN it :) Thanks so much for the comment,
A good TED talk is not easy to prepare and present. It takes careful structuring, refining the ideas, and polishing the delivery. You obviously put in the effort to package your hard-won insights into an excellent TED talk. Great job Zach! Good for you.
I am PSH student. Your talk reminds me of what you first did for me when I joined the Piano University. I am 54 years old and took my last in person lesson when I was 18. I was in desperate need of a kickstart. Since I became a member, I have made huge strides in my own playing and have taken on 5 students, something I would not have done in the past because I hated my own piano lessons. Your enthusiasm and motivational techniques have turned everything around for me. I am making more money and LOVING what I do even if it's a sideline for me at this point. Who knew I could reinvent myself at 54. Thank you for that! I am so glad you got a chance to share this with an even bigger audience!
Great job! I retired from teaching special education students. You discovered your learning style as a young man and have used the same technique to encourage others to learn. Everyone learns better from whatever style suits them best;, audio, visual, kinesthetic, or tactile, or a combination of more than one. Making learning fun encourages everyone that displays any interest. I'm going to follow and learn from you. Thank you so much for what you do.
Honestly, one of the smartest TED talks I have seen, addressing the issue of the information society, the motivation. I also think that the myth of easy learning at a young age is debunkable. Great video and expertly prepared presentation, Zach.
I bought my first keyboard 2 days ago and have already learned so much watching Zach's videos. His passion is so beautiful and I can't wait to continue learning. Special person right here...
Zach, so glad You got this opportunity at TEDx-Talks. I'm so happy for You. "Wow" is what they said. I have listened to Your patterns and tried to apply them myself on all our weekly gigs over the past years. Now I'm thinking like You every week on stage, "What if they find out I'm actually playing the same 5 or 6 patterns applied to the different scales all over?" :D It is because they are so great and easy to grasp. I wonder if that video is gonna hit 1.000.000 views one day. Good luck, Zach. Your course has helped me a lot and I hope I can learn from it life-long. See ya in the next video. Keep it up!!!
Thank you Nic!! Awesome that you're putting the patterns into practice! And congrats to you on having weekly gigs, there are a lot of folks out there who would LOVE to have gigs every week. Keep up the great work!
Zach your the best bro a remember that your the one I would a say a special kind of person who open up my eyes to how music is much easier when it's teach with meaning and I'm so glad that we still have guys like you out there who wanna help us out
I am one of those 'older' players (65) who has already learned a lot from your teachings. I am now doing the 2nd year and your passion and techniques have already helped me a lot. So thank you, your motivation is indeed contagious!
Congratulations Zach, your motivation is so contagious that also made me keep learning piano. I loved your quote, prioritize motivation over information! Peace up! ✌🏻
Zach, your TED Talk is on point. You have mad skills! Love the humor, as well as the delivery. You are so INSPIRING, can't wait to see what you do next!
Congratulations, Zach! That was a wonderful and informative speech. I am sure that almost anyone who sees this video will seek out and find the motivation they need to succeed in any endeavor. You have been around for a while now teaching people how to play the piano, mostly at no cost. Once they are truly motivated your efforts will definitely pay off!
Guys the best teacher. I've been playing keyboards forever on and off, playing chords from VH jump and then 5150 and I've learned more with this Kat than anyone, and I know great musicians .. none of them ever knew theory or how to read music, they just learned on own, especially a good friend who's an incredible drummer, he learned - accents, upbeats, fills etc. on his own till it became natural. I always played learning patterns. I believe anyone can become a decent piano/keyboard player in 8-12 mos - one hour a day, few days a week. I believe now, you can be pretty decent in fews weeks now with this man'ssystem. I mean anyone .. there's no genetic walls or limitations like physical abilities .. like not eberyone can bench 500 lbs or throw a ball 90mph no matter how much you practice. That stuff doesn't apply to music, especially keyboards. Ppl say drums are easiest and piano can be one of the hardest, maybe to some extent, but I disagree .. I find keyboards to be most doable, might be bias or just saying that, coz that's what I picked up, but I don't think so. Sure, maybe not everyone can be elite, but everyone can be ok- to pretty good and you'd be surprised how being alright to good is, that's gonna be better than most on planet.
Hey Zach! Great talk! As a participant on your online course I couldn’t wait to watch this! I wasn’t disappointed. I am rushing to my piano to continue my practice as I am writing this. You are an inspiration and I hope everyone who watches this is inspired to get learning. Good luck and happy practicing!
Zach has the "secret sauce" charisma of a natural who understands that skills known as difficult are only so because some experts decide to mystify them to protect their own status. He breaks down the barriers because he knows the angles of the insider and the frustrations of the outsider. And he genuinely wants people to succeed rather than to protect his fame.
Excellent and Inspiring and Zack is why I am motivated (already for 6 months at age 72) to go forward and continue learning piano. His methods deliver!!!
The Secret Sauce, the Launch Point, Grab quick Wins Early. Excellent ideas! I always felt that the main reason I quit and gave up before, was because I had NO SUCCESSES. I could point to no achievements. I would just get bored and lose all motivation to practice. Next, I would soothe my frustration with alcohol. I'm going to try daily for 3 months and hope I can make it to the magical Launch Point. Thank you, Zack.
I found Zach after having experienced probably all of the videos he points to in the "6 BEST Chord Progressions for Piano Beginners EASY" video. I liked the idea of the FREE [PSH] because I wasn't interested in purchasing anything, yet. But when I reviewed the PSH BONUSES, to solidify my commitment to myself -- that I'd have ALL I Need -- long story short... I used plastic and purchased PIANO UNIVERSITY FULL ACCESS -- LIFETIME!!! We never know how long the greatest opportunities can last. I'm leveraging this to exercise greater discipline in EVERYTHING I do. Thank YOU, Zach. The long story is TOO LONG. Now I can put our Baby Grand and Korg Pro X Trinity Workstation to work :) Everything seems to be coming ALIVE! ...she doesn't know, yet, but we'll see how my Wife takes to this -- she tried piano, once.
I’ve always gotten some new nuggets to apply when watching your videos. This TED talk was indeed motivational. I started playing piano 53 years ago love it more today than ever. Thanks for putting so much of yourself into those of us who are privileged to watch and learn form you, God bless you!
I subscribed to your play by ear masterclass, started off well , then stopped, now this video makes me want to push on with the course, I agree 100 % that motivation is the key. I took lessons when I was 21 years old, I did great for 3 years , then stopped and have been on and off trying to learn for the last 30 years, I’m now 53 and still no better than 30 years ago. I tried various apps to learn but found them frustrating. So you have given me the motivation to keep on trying, although I do need a kick up the backside every now and then to keep practicing 😄
Well done Zach ... you finally did it. I was really impressed. You tackled it like everything you do in your life, with enthusiasm and integrity of purpose. I have bought several of your courses and finally your Full Access to Piano University. I am very busy running a business, but once I've sold up and finally 'retired' I'm looking forward to being able to spend a lot more time on your amazing Course. I was going to enroll into our local Music School, but I don't think I need to now. Thank you for giving purpose to my life and doing what you do. Loved the photo of your special family.
Awesome to hear. I love how there are so many people who have the attitude that retirement doesn't mean "watch TV all day", but that people are treating it as "once I retire, WOW I'll have so much free time to learn and try new things!!" I love the attitude
I went back to this video and got myself to laughing because, although you taught yourself the secret sauce watching tutorials, I learned how to read sheet music watching tutorials. My first song was the Happy Birthday Song. I played it for a gaming (streamer) friend of mine online. I posted it on FB but I was only allowed to play 40 seconds (laughing) because that's all the time the moderators gave me since others were watiing to wish her a happy birthday too. I was reading and playing songs within my first week. That said, YOU are the one that motivated me to practice with a purpose. YOU made the chords "click" in my head to understand the patterns I was playing on the piano. The chord patterns JUMP out at me now because of the motivation that you gave to me to practice. Thank you Zach.
Excellent , Zach!!! I am blessed to have you, my piano teacher. Thank you so much for sharing the “secret sauce “ pattern! It’s a magical left hand pattern. You are a great teacher because you know how to encourage others. You are also a wonderful friend because you are able to lift people up, not pushing them down.
I’m a PSH student. 60 years old and loving it. It helps that I’ve played guitar for 40 years, but I can’t read music and don’t really want to. Thanks Zach.
Over the past year and a half Zach has given me motivation and technical information for playing the piano correctly. And the information is passed on. At a public yesterday I showed a three year old how to play five consecutive notes based on Zach's first few lessons.
I reached a plateau in my piano lessons and this helped me through it. I’ve been going through book 1 to 6 of five piano courses and thankfully I found Zach’s tutorials and charts!
Wow Zach your talk was awesome. Your motivation and enthusiasm is infectious. You convinced me that even a retiree who never touched the keyboard as a child can learn how to play the piano. Don't ever stop what you do. I am a better student thanks to you. I'm glad your parents were there to provide moral support. Peace up.
Zach! You totally nailed this TED talk. Amazing, amazing job. The hard work really paid off. Your presentation looked seamless and spontaneous, you spoke so naturally. You sounded like YOU. I really love it and will be coming back to it again and again. I also love your theory about motivation over information. You're a thought-leader now, too?! Proud of your brand and your great mind. Keep up your good work. You're making the world a better place, full of better piano players! Hahaha!
Y0U ARE INDEED THE MAGIC SAUCE! THANKS FOR YOUR ENCOURAGEMENT, AND ENTHUSIASM! With your love of music and willingness to share your experience, you will achieve your goal of inspiring everyone and anyone on how to learn piano!
A wonderful talk. I've watched many TED talks and yours is top notch. I've NEVER seen a TED talker who replied to EVERY comment, before you! Blessings to you!
Zach, you were brilliant! I have learned so much from you as one of your students, not just about how to play the piano, which is a given, but how to learn anything. You are certainly a master in piano and you are authentic and passionate about life which is contagious!!! It was wonderful to see you do a TED Talk. That must have been a thrill for you and your family! Congratulations, Zach, and thank you for making us all better learners and sharing your story!
Congratulations on your TEDx Talk, Zach! I believe that you are spot-on with motivation over information and that's why I'm a PSH student. Don't doubt your greatness, Zach: not many can pull off what you are capable of doing with playing and teaching piano. You've got your own "secret sauce" personality to infuse it all with! You're an inspiration to many, myself included. Thank you!
Better than good! You exude enthusiasm, your face expresses honesty, your demeanor implores us to follow you and what you say excites and encourages us to believe and get to work. Great job. Thanks
Bro i saw your piano prank videos on youtube. I love them so much, the way you play inspired me. I just ordered me a piano for beginners. And your message here is even more inspiring. Thank you. You are the secret sauce we all needed.
Zac. I love you so much…. I’m turning 56 years old now. And all of those years I sing but I don’t gave importance to music. This year 2023 August I start liking piano and trying to find a master and Oh my god. I have your UA-cam and I starting learning. Love you
Awesome !!! Thanks Zach it was a great Ted Talk. Without you and the PSH course I would never have Realized my dream to play piano. I looked at other programs and they just didn't work for me. It brought tear's to my eyes the first time in all life that I really had success playing piano. I love every e-mail you send me it makes me feel your right there next to me encouraging me on. When I struggle I ask myself what would Zach say. And then I go back and review that lesson. Playing piano has made my life more fulfilled. Being disabled and in a wheelchair it is sometimes heard to make friends. But now I'm not just the teacher in the wheelchair I'm the woman who plays piano. it's amazing how music breaks down barriers. Thanks again!
Been following Zach's online piano teaching for a couple of years now and he is truly amazing - as are his teaching methods and online classes. Loved this video and glad he had this TED opportunity to share his wealth of information with everyone. Yes, knowledge is helpful but motivation is the real key to success.
WOWZERS! what was that!?!??!?!? At first I look at the video being 17 minutes long so I sit here thinking I'm going to be here for a while. Then the presentation starts and when i think I'm only 2 minutes into the presentation it is already over?! You had me completely entranced that I completely lost sense of time and everything else. I was thinking NO WAY 17 minutes already passed. Then when it actually dawned on me that it was over, I was thinking NOOOOO I want more.
Great video, Zach. I really like your no nonsense approach to learning and the fact that you're not afraid to talk about your own struggles while learning how to play. That takes guts. You've made learning how to play the piano a lot less intimidating.
Zach - I watch your u-tube tutorials. I really enjoyed yourTED talk. Powerful ideas and entertaining. I like how you were interested and thought through how to motivate people. You are so right - give some FUN successes before all the head work (theory). I am going to try working on the secret sauce. I am 65 - just getting started with the piano.
It was a really good talk, Zach! The effort was well worth it! And, as you did years ago on the Internet, you gave everybody the magic chord, which is not the notes on the piano, but the right strings on people's minds: motivation and the positive reinforcement feedback loop. Those are the keys to learning anything. It's great to watch young, passionate, talented people giving all that wisdom and passion away to the world, thank you very much!
Zach, this is an awesome TEDtalk! Your hard work has paid off in a very motivating and professional presentation. I love the idea of giving students early success that inspires them to continue learning--this is EXACTLY what you do in your courses. If anyone watching this talk has a desire to learn to play the piano, I hope they will enroll in your Piano University, where you expand on this principle to make learning the piano and music theory an exciting and rewarding experience.
It is wonderful to watch my favorite piano teacher in a TED Talk..!! I personally learned a lot from his online videos, especially, the secret sauce pattern really worked for me. Zach is a great teacher and he cares about keeping a student motivated (which is the major issue in learning any musical instrument). This TED Talk is excellent and very necessary. Congratulations Zach!!
♥Zach ♥, You are an ♥ especially gifted teacher ♥! I am excited to learn to play...after all these years!♥Thank you ♥ for being so kind, responsive, and understanding.♥
Thanks Zach! Even though you offer so much in the way of teaching, your encouragement is the thing that keeps me from giving up. Sometimes, I start, quit for a while and pick it back up. But, guess what, I pick it back up! Thanks again.
Congrats Zach. I'm a big TED fan and watch many people in various fields. I was excited to hear you were asked to be on TED. I watched you twice. Your presentation was great, saw you held everyone's interest but really piqued their interest with your story and playing. You proved three points that night. One was you could learn from an instructor on the internet. if you have what it takes you can be successful working the internet for a living. Last if you work at it you can play piano. Lets not forget the right instructor makes a world of difference. Seems to be many are in agreement a guy named Zach is the man to go to on the internet to learn how to play the piano.
Good to see you Zach on this stage of prominence.. You ignited my passion to learn piano again.. I started piano when I was 12 but lost out because my teacher was not helping.. Watching some of your tutorials I have started savings towards buying a piano. Key take out is Motivation over information..
PHENOMENAL TALK ZACH!!!!!😍. Thrilled to see you give a TED talk....Congratulations🎉🎉🎉. You always share “Nuggets of GOLD”✅😀. This truly was a Great Talk!!! I treasure All the programs I have of yours!!! GOD Bless you in ALL you do, “Gee”
Learning how to cook: spirally noodles with ham and cheese. From there on you can do variations. Herbs, pepper, a little milk. Or put carrots before water starts boiling. Exchange noodles with rice. Try other vegetables. Very true. Just a question of motivation, discipline and priorities.
I still hope to be a decent player at 60, time's running out. I'm really glad you did this TED talk Zach, you are fantastic and really inspiring. Keep it up, you really are helping lots of people!
It’s so true. It’s much more fun to learn piano if you’re given the simplest tools to achieve the goal. I’m playing more in 4 weeks via chord charting than I ever could in my 2 years of keyboard fundamentals classes in college. And in doing it this way, the theory isn’t just head knowledge anymore, it’s becoming tangible as I play.
Thanks Zach to send me this video with your comments of how I can improve my playing. Motivation is not my problem I has practice for at least 2 hours a day , but really enjoy the pattern you used. I'll try it. Happy to be one of your students.
You're just awesome Zach!. you are such a motivator,, I watch all your instructional videos and use your techniques in my daily practice.. All the instructions you give are very helpful and very motivating.. thanks Zach for helping me with my piano practice.
Thanks a lot, I’ve been following your teachings for months. Anyone can play piano as long as they put the time and effort into it. I’m planning on buying your book.
The 'zillion' positive comments here on your presentation pretty much say it all: You were very 'cool' up there on stage, giving a thoroughly smooth, professional and entertaining presentation (your hard work certainly paid off! sing your specialty to illustrate the more global subject of MOTIVATION was brilliant! And . . . I’m SURE that many folks have decided to give piano 'a try' based on YOUR enthusiasm. Also . . . it was FUN to actually see someone I 'know' give a TED Talk! I WILL pass on this link to a couple of friends I’ve been TRYING to interest in piano, who insist that they just don’t have what it takes. Fingers crossed . . .
Zach is an inspiring Piano teacher. He genuinely cares about his online students. If you are thinking of learning piano you need to check out his website.
Good job Zach! I'm impressed with not only your beautiful piano skills, but also your ambition and hard work as an entrepreneur starting these online classes. I hope you continue to grow and succeed.
Hi Zach, we watched your ted talk too, it was wonderful ... I would love to hear on your podcast how this all came about. I am so proud to know you did a TED talk and that it was not only informative of one of your main messages, but that it was natural and balanced. Super job, AND you looked like you were enjoying yourself!!
Love this guy; the issue is motivation...and he is not trying to screw the last dollar out of you. He just wants you to live
I agree..he is truely great!
Totally true, you watch these others and they show you 3 or 4 tuts then its money time, Ive only followed Zach for about 2 weeks now, and already he has made things so clear, When I get some money I will be buying from him, more as a thank you than anything else, the guy is amazing.... ;)
I’m a 80 YO piano student. Zach has been my teacher for years. One of the main reasons I’ve stuck with him is he uses the KISS principle. Simple is best! He’s a motivator. At my age I need all the motivation I can get! Zach is the best piano teacher I’ve ever had!
Thanks so much John, means the world to me, and so glad I could help. And even better, props to you for bucking the trend that older people can't learn and proving the haters wrong!!!
what exactly is the KISS principle? 🤔
I'm a 90 year old piano student and Zac has been my teacher for years too! 😮
PSH!!! Congrats Zach!! Your hardwork of years paid off!!!! Anyone a PSH student??!! Or anyone Zach's student!!
Like👇
I AM ! played when I was 12, and am trying to relearn..hes a great teacher !
He's a great teacher. Very motivating and teaches the basics with tools that are productive and easy to remember. Actually got me to the point of enjoying playing.
Thanks a TON Nancy, really glad you're getting results 💪💪💪
@@MsShep55 Thanks a ton!! 😃
@@rayjaybay606 Really appreciate it Rayjay, glad the lessons are working for ya 🙏
Zach, so awesome to see you in a TED talk. You have helped me 100% and I knew you had valuable insights when I watched your first video.
Hey Kim, thanks so much for the kind words. Really glad you're enjoying all the lessons :)
Just watched/played along to my first video of his and now I'm here..
His energy is quite contagious.
Zack, you are amazing! Thanks for shooting me an email. I worked with your Piano University on-line a year or so ago and .... lost my MOTIVATION. You hit the nail on the head.
I am retired. I have PLENTY of time. But .... I don't know how to get motivated. (Yet). So glad YOU are on You Tube! You are a one-man dynamo!
Awesome Jerry!! You'd be surprised how many people who have success with the course ARE retired folks. They say "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" but I've found that saying to be 100% false!
This guy is amazing. I am so impressed! He loves music!! And he loves to make everybody happy by teaching simple ways and not showing off with his talent!
I absolutely love Zach’s energy, and, as a piano teacher myself, I can tell, that he is truly passionate about music and teaching. ♥️🙌🦋🎹
Great job Zach . I have full access to his course become piano superhuman , It was game changer for me the secret sauce pattern is nothing comparing to what I learnt from him .the course take you literally from Zero to Hero in playing the piano . All you need is putting the time & be consistent practicing and if you do and follow his tips in the course there is no way you're not going to be a very good pianist . He did not tell me to say this in youtube or to anyone but I would say that again and again just because he really deserve it . I paid only 297$ with 70% discount that he gave me . it was one of the best decisions I have made
Hey Mohammed, so glad you're enjoying the lessons and the course. Props to you as well for really putting this stuff into practice and putting in the work to learn it, congrats! 💪💪💪
Great talk Zach. I've looked at your PSH course and bought your book on scales. I'm now 63 and a retired engineer who took up piano about a year ago. I agree that most people are far more capable of learning new skills than is commonly believed and I'm really enjoying the musical journey. Modern technology has made it easier than ever to learn music. I have an Arturia Matrix Brute synthsiser and a Casio PSX 3000 digital piano connected to my computer running Logic Pro X but I have also benefited greatly from online music teachers such as yourself. Keep up the good work.
Awesome to hear David! You seem like a real go-getter, love the attitude 💪💪💪
I've just done my first lesson last night with Zach on youtube. Cant wait to post here after a month with my progress. This guy makes sense
How’s going?
Zach, you are so professional ! You have a natural ability to share your passion for the piano and make it 'achievable' for anyone to start their journey in learning how to play. Your course is so organised and easy to follow, it's an absolute pleasure to sit down every day to learn something new from you. You deserve this recognition from TED and I wish you the very best of everything for the future. You have put the WOW factor back into my life, for which I thank you. I am in my mid-70's and have already made good progress after a few months in learning how to play the piano. I actually feel younger every day... thanks to you.
Woohoo!! Congrats on your success! I love the stories of people who don't start till after they retire and are absolutely KILLIN it :)
Thanks so much for the comment,
A good TED talk is not easy to prepare and present. It takes careful structuring, refining the ideas, and polishing the delivery. You obviously put in the effort to package your hard-won insights into an excellent TED talk. Great job Zach! Good for you.
Thanks a ton, yea it took about 4 months believe it or not to write, rewrite, reorganize, practice, and perfect the talk. All for 17 minutes hahaha :)
I have been following you for about two years, and have reached that launch point. Thanks for all that you do.
Awesome to hear Greg, props to you for the hard work 😃
I am PSH student. Your talk reminds me of what you first did for me when I joined the Piano University. I am 54 years old and took my last in person lesson when I was 18. I was in desperate need of a kickstart. Since I became a member, I have made huge strides in my own playing and have taken on 5 students, something I would not have done in the past because I hated my own piano lessons. Your enthusiasm and motivational techniques have turned everything around for me. I am making more money and LOVING what I do even if it's a sideline for me at this point. Who knew I could reinvent myself at 54. Thank you for that! I am so glad you got a chance to share this with an even bigger audience!
Hey Sarah, thanks so much for the comment. SO glad the course has helped you, you seem like a go-getter, keep up the great work! 💪
"upward positive motivational loop" that sounded so amazing
Thanks, glad you liked it !
Great job! I retired from teaching special education students. You discovered your learning style as a young man and have used the same technique to encourage others to learn. Everyone learns better from whatever style suits them best;, audio, visual, kinesthetic, or tactile, or a combination of more than one. Making learning fun encourages everyone that displays any interest. I'm going to follow and learn from you. Thank you so much for what you do.
Honestly, one of the smartest TED talks I have seen, addressing the issue of the information society, the motivation. I also think that the myth of easy learning at a young age is debunkable. Great video and expertly prepared presentation, Zach.
I bought my first keyboard 2 days ago and have already learned so much watching Zach's videos. His passion is so beautiful and I can't wait to continue learning. Special person right here...
Zach, so glad You got this opportunity at TEDx-Talks. I'm so happy for You. "Wow" is what they said. I have listened to Your patterns and tried to apply them myself on all our weekly gigs over the past years. Now I'm thinking like You every week on stage, "What if they find out I'm actually playing the same 5 or 6 patterns applied to the different scales all over?" :D It is because they are so great and easy to grasp. I wonder if that video is gonna hit 1.000.000 views one day. Good luck, Zach. Your course has helped me a lot and I hope I can learn from it life-long. See ya in the next video. Keep it up!!!
Thank you Nic!! Awesome that you're putting the patterns into practice! And congrats to you on having weekly gigs, there are a lot of folks out there who would LOVE to have gigs every week. Keep up the great work!
Zach your the best bro a remember that your the one I would a say a special kind of person who open up my eyes to how music is much easier when it's teach with meaning and I'm so glad that we still have guys like you out there who wanna help us out
I am one of those 'older' players (65) who has already learned a lot from your teachings. I am now doing the 2nd year and your passion and techniques have already helped me a lot. So thank you, your motivation is indeed contagious!
Awesome to hear!! I LOVE the attitude of continuing to learn no matter your age, and to buck the trend!
Congratulations Zach, your motivation is so contagious that also made me keep learning piano. I loved your quote, prioritize motivation over information! Peace up! ✌🏻
Thanks Sergio, means a lot to me 😃
I have enjoyed Zach's videos for the last year. Piano success does not have to look the same as the traditional methods. Zach has great vision.
Thank you Cynthia, really appreciate it
Wow,congrats Zack..You have the art and the knack to convince anyone O am so happy ,I discovered you.❤
I understand you. Because I also play piano because of you're videos.
You rock!!... SENSEI!!... LOVE FROM INDIA since five years!!.... MY CAREER IS NOTHING WITHOUT YOU, ZACH. You've come a long way!!!!...
Thank you!!!!!!! So glad you've enjoyed the lessons :)
Zach, your TED Talk is on point. You have mad skills! Love the humor, as well as the delivery. You are so INSPIRING, can't wait to see what you do next!
Thank you Zach!!!❤
Congratulations, Zach! That was a wonderful and informative speech. I am sure that almost anyone who sees this video will seek out and find the motivation they need to succeed in any endeavor. You have been around for a while now teaching people how to play the piano, mostly at no cost. Once they are truly motivated your efforts will definitely pay off!
Hey James, thanks so much, really glad you liked the video 😃😃😃
I wanted to stop piano learning until I watch your video. Thank you for your motivation
Guys the best teacher. I've been playing keyboards forever on and off, playing chords from VH jump and then 5150 and I've learned more with this Kat than anyone, and I know great musicians .. none of them ever knew theory or how to read music, they just learned on own, especially a good friend who's an incredible drummer, he learned - accents, upbeats, fills etc. on his own till it became natural. I always played learning patterns. I believe anyone can become a decent piano/keyboard player in 8-12 mos - one hour a day, few days a week. I believe now, you can be pretty decent in fews weeks now with this man'ssystem. I mean anyone .. there's no genetic walls or limitations like physical abilities .. like not eberyone can bench 500 lbs or throw a ball 90mph no matter how much you practice. That stuff doesn't apply to music, especially keyboards. Ppl say drums are easiest and piano can be one of the hardest, maybe to some extent, but I disagree .. I find keyboards to be most doable, might be bias or just saying that, coz that's what I picked up, but I don't think so. Sure, maybe not everyone can be elite, but everyone can be ok- to pretty good and you'd be surprised how being alright to good is, that's gonna be better than most on planet.
The issue is motivation - nail THROUGH the head!
Hey Zach! Great talk! As a participant on your online course I couldn’t wait to watch this! I wasn’t disappointed. I am rushing to my piano to continue my practice as I am writing this. You are an inspiration and I hope everyone who watches this is inspired to get learning. Good luck and happy practicing!
Awesome Sally!!! Glad I could help motivate you, keep up the good work 💪
Zach has the "secret sauce" charisma of a natural who understands that skills known as difficult are only so because some experts decide to mystify them to protect their own status. He breaks down the barriers because he knows the angles of the insider and the frustrations of the outsider. And he genuinely wants people to succeed rather than to protect his fame.
Thank you for the kind words Mirek, it really means a lot to me, I really appreciate it
Excellent and Inspiring and Zack is why I am motivated (already for 6 months at age 72) to go forward and continue learning piano. His methods deliver!!!
Woohoo!! 72 and still learning, gotta love it!!
The Secret Sauce, the Launch Point, Grab quick Wins Early. Excellent ideas! I always felt that the main reason I quit and gave up before, was because I had NO SUCCESSES. I could point to no achievements. I would just get bored and lose all motivation to practice. Next, I would soothe my frustration with alcohol. I'm going to try daily for 3 months and hope I can make it to the magical Launch Point. Thank you, Zack.
You're welcome Jerry, so glad the talk could motivate you!! Keep at it 💪
This guy is super human piano player❤
Great Teacher. Zack has motivated me beyond what I thought I could achieve.
I found Zach after having experienced probably all of the videos he points to in the "6 BEST Chord Progressions for Piano Beginners EASY" video. I liked the idea of the FREE [PSH] because I wasn't interested in purchasing anything, yet. But when I reviewed the PSH BONUSES, to solidify my commitment to myself -- that I'd have ALL I Need -- long story short... I used plastic and purchased PIANO UNIVERSITY FULL ACCESS -- LIFETIME!!! We never know how long the greatest opportunities can last. I'm leveraging this to exercise greater discipline in EVERYTHING I do. Thank YOU, Zach. The long story is TOO LONG. Now I can put our Baby Grand and Korg Pro X Trinity Workstation to work :) Everything seems to be coming ALIVE! ...she doesn't know, yet, but we'll see how my Wife takes to this -- she tried piano, once.
I’ve always gotten some new nuggets to apply when watching your videos. This TED talk was indeed motivational. I started playing piano 53 years ago love it more today than ever. Thanks for putting so much of yourself into those of us who are privileged to watch and learn form you, God bless you!
Hey Terry, thanks for the comment, and keep up the great work!! Glad to hear of all your success
I subscribed to your play by ear masterclass, started off well , then stopped, now this video makes me want to push on with the course, I agree 100 % that motivation is the key. I took lessons when I was 21 years old, I did great for 3 years , then stopped and have been on and off trying to learn for the last 30 years, I’m now 53 and still no better than 30 years ago. I tried various apps to learn but found them frustrating.
So you have given me the motivation to keep on trying, although I do need a kick up the backside every now and then to keep practicing 😄
Hey David, glad this video is helping motivate you! I agree with you, half the battle is simply sitting down at the piano and practicing. Keep at it 💪
Well done Zach ... you finally did it. I was really impressed. You tackled it like everything you do in your life, with enthusiasm and integrity of purpose. I have bought several of your courses and finally your Full Access to Piano University. I am very busy running a business, but once I've sold up and finally 'retired' I'm looking forward to being able to spend a lot more time on your amazing Course. I was going to enroll into our local Music School, but I don't think I need to now. Thank you for giving purpose to my life and doing what you do. Loved the photo of your special family.
Awesome to hear. I love how there are so many people who have the attitude that retirement doesn't mean "watch TV all day", but that people are treating it as "once I retire, WOW I'll have so much free time to learn and try new things!!" I love the attitude
I went back to this video and got myself to laughing because, although you taught yourself the secret sauce watching tutorials, I learned how to read sheet music watching tutorials. My first song was the Happy Birthday Song. I played it for a gaming (streamer) friend of mine online. I posted it on FB but I was only allowed to play 40 seconds (laughing) because that's all the time the moderators gave me since others were watiing to wish her a happy birthday too. I was reading and playing songs within my first week. That said, YOU are the one that motivated me to practice with a purpose. YOU made the chords "click" in my head to understand the patterns I was playing on the piano. The chord patterns JUMP out at me now because of the motivation that you gave to me to practice. Thank you Zach.
Excellent , Zach!!! I am blessed to have you, my piano teacher. Thank you so much for sharing the “secret sauce “ pattern! It’s a magical left hand pattern.
You are a great teacher because you know how to encourage others. You are also a wonderful friend because you are able to lift people up, not pushing them down.
Thank you so much!! I think especially in today's day and age, yes it's always better to stay positive, we're all in this together 💪
I’m a PSH student. 60 years old and loving it. It helps that I’ve played guitar for 40 years, but I can’t read music and don’t really want to. Thanks Zach.
Your intro comments are exactly what I would have said to you. You have now given me hope.
Over the past year and a half Zach has given me motivation and technical information for playing the piano correctly. And the information is passed on. At a public yesterday I showed a three year old how to play five consecutive notes based on Zach's first few lessons.
Awesome to hear Patricia! Great that you're spreading the word and teaching the next generation💪
I reached a plateau in my piano lessons and this helped me through it. I’ve been going through book 1 to 6 of five piano courses and thankfully I found Zach’s tutorials and charts!
Zach, you have a very bright future as an educator and as a public speaker. No doubt about it. Thank you for your great piano videos.
Wow Zach your talk was awesome. Your motivation and enthusiasm is infectious. You convinced me that even a retiree who never touched the keyboard as a child can learn how to play the piano. Don't ever stop what you do. I am a better student thanks to you. I'm glad your parents were there to provide moral support. Peace up.
Thanks so much Flora, your kind words mean a lot to me 😍
Zach, you were a hero of mine for a long time. But I liked hearing this inspiring story.
Thanks a lot Garry, means a lot to me :)
Zach! You totally nailed this TED talk. Amazing, amazing job. The hard work really paid off. Your presentation looked seamless and spontaneous, you spoke so naturally. You sounded like YOU. I really love it and will be coming back to it again and again. I also love your theory about motivation over information. You're a thought-leader now, too?! Proud of your brand and your great mind. Keep up your good work. You're making the world a better place, full of better piano players! Hahaha!
Hey Christopher, thanks so much for the kind words, means the world to me :) So glad you enjoyed the presentation!!!
Y0U ARE INDEED THE MAGIC SAUCE! THANKS FOR YOUR ENCOURAGEMENT, AND ENTHUSIASM! With your love of music and willingness to share your experience, you will achieve your goal of inspiring everyone and anyone on how to learn piano!
Love Zach who is able to combine formal technique with joyous pattern music...the launnchpoint. Has certainly helped me ...and such a nice man
Thanks a ton Stephan, that means a lot to me :)
A wonderful talk. I've watched many TED talks and yours is top notch. I've NEVER seen a TED talker who replied to EVERY comment, before you! Blessings to you!
No problem!! Yea, I figure y'all are supporting me so much by watching the video and commenting, it's the least I can do 😃
Zach, you were brilliant! I have learned so much from you as one of your students, not just about how to play the piano, which is a given, but how to learn anything. You are certainly a master in piano and you are authentic and passionate about life which is contagious!!! It was wonderful to see you do a TED Talk. That must have been a thrill for you and your family! Congratulations, Zach, and thank you for making us all better learners and sharing your story!
Thank you so much Irene!! Really means the world to me :)
Congratulations on your TEDx Talk, Zach! I believe that you are spot-on with motivation over information and that's why I'm a PSH student. Don't doubt your greatness, Zach: not many can pull off what you are capable of doing with playing and teaching piano. You've got your own "secret sauce" personality to infuse it all with! You're an inspiration to many, myself included. Thank you!
Thanks so much Jennifer! Glad you agree :) love the attitude, keep up the good work!
Better than good! You exude enthusiasm, your face expresses honesty, your demeanor implores us to follow you and what you say excites and encourages us to believe and get to work.
Great job. Thanks
Thanks a ton Eddie, I put a lot of time into trying to make it rerally good, so glad you liked it
Bro i saw your piano prank videos on youtube. I love them so much, the way you play inspired me. I just ordered me a piano for beginners. And your message here is even more inspiring. Thank you. You are the secret sauce we all needed.
He's like a personal trainer but for piano. His enthusiasm is motivating!
Zac. I love you so much…. I’m turning 56 years old now. And all of those years I sing but I don’t gave importance to music. This year 2023 August I start liking piano and trying to find a master and Oh my god. I have your UA-cam and I starting learning. Love you
Awesome !!! Thanks Zach it was a great Ted Talk. Without you and the PSH course I would never have Realized my dream to play piano. I looked at other programs and they just didn't work for me. It brought tear's to my eyes the first time in all life that I really had success playing piano. I love every e-mail you send me it makes me feel your right there next to me encouraging me on. When I struggle I ask myself what would Zach say. And then I go back and review that lesson. Playing piano has made my life more fulfilled. Being disabled and in a wheelchair it is sometimes heard to make friends. But now I'm not just the teacher in the wheelchair I'm the woman who plays piano. it's amazing how music breaks down barriers. Thanks again!
Hey Carol, WOW, what a story. Props to YOU for not letting a wheelchair define who you are!! Love the attitude 😃
Been following Zach's online piano teaching for a couple of years now and he is truly amazing - as are his teaching methods and online classes. Loved this video and glad he had this TED opportunity to share his wealth of information with everyone. Yes, knowledge is helpful but motivation is the real key to success.
Exactly!! Glad you're enjoying the courses!
Zach I love how Motivational you are. I have learned to find that secret sauce in every aspect of my life. It's Magical!!!Great Ted Talk!!!
Thanks Rick! So glad you liked it 😀
You're Great Zach. love this type of hacks for life 😀
The only TEDx video I watched on Normal speed and finished the whole thing. Dude you're awesome!
WOWZERS! what was that!?!??!?!? At first I look at the video being 17 minutes long so I sit here thinking I'm going to be here for a while. Then the presentation starts and when i think I'm only 2 minutes into the presentation it is already over?! You had me completely entranced that I completely lost sense of time and everything else. I was thinking NO WAY 17 minutes already passed. Then when it actually dawned on me that it was over, I was thinking NOOOOO I want more.
Congratulations Zack, you did a fantastic TED talk. Very proud of you.
Thanks a ton Linda, really glad you enjoyed it
Bravo Zach!! Your passion for music, and teaching it in inspiring manner is amazing. Thank You.
You're welcome, so glad you liked it :)
Great video, Zach. I really like your no nonsense approach to learning and the fact that you're not afraid to talk about your own struggles while learning how to play. That takes guts. You've made learning how to play the piano a lot less intimidating.
Really glad to hear you liked the video. Thanks for the comment!
Piano Superhuman!! So excited for you Zach! You’ve helped me improve my piano playing 100% and more. Congratulations, you deserve this.
Thanks a ton Jenn, means the world to me 😃
Awesome, Zach, you are always the most inspirational teacher, we all learn so much from your skill but more from your passion.
Thanks so much, really appreciate it 😃
Zach - I watch your u-tube tutorials. I really enjoyed yourTED talk. Powerful ideas and entertaining. I like how you were interested and thought through how to motivate people. You are so right - give some FUN successes before all the head work (theory). I am going to try working on the secret sauce. I am 65 - just getting started with the piano.
Thanks a ton Lori. And props to you - 65 and still excited to learn! I love the attitude
It was a really good talk, Zach! The effort was well worth it! And, as you did years ago on the Internet, you gave everybody the magic chord, which is not the notes on the piano, but the right strings on people's minds: motivation and the positive reinforcement feedback loop. Those are the keys to learning anything. It's great to watch young, passionate, talented people giving all that wisdom and passion away to the world, thank you very much!
Wow, thanks so much for the comment David, it really means a lot to me :)
Zach, this is an awesome TEDtalk! Your hard work has paid off in a very motivating and professional presentation. I love the idea of giving students early success that inspires them to continue learning--this is EXACTLY what you do in your courses. If anyone watching this talk has a desire to learn to play the piano, I hope they will enroll in your Piano University, where you expand on this principle to make learning the piano and music theory an exciting and rewarding experience.
Thanks a ton Rose, so glad you liked it!! 😃
It is wonderful to watch my favorite piano teacher in a TED Talk..!! I personally learned a lot from his online videos, especially, the secret sauce pattern really worked for me. Zach is a great teacher and he cares about keeping a student motivated (which is the major issue in learning any musical instrument). This TED Talk is excellent and very necessary. Congratulations Zach!!
Thanks a ton 😃😃 and so glad to hear of all your success with the lessons :)
Congrats Zach!!!!!! Great presentation, the 4 months of prep really showed.
Thank you!! Yep, it was definitely a grind, but really glad I went through with it
I never comment on Ted Talks, but dude - you’re amazing. 🙂👍 👏👏
♥Zach ♥, You are an ♥ especially gifted teacher ♥! I am excited to learn to play...after all these years!♥Thank you ♥ for being so kind, responsive, and understanding.♥
Thanks Zach! Even though you offer so much in the way of teaching, your encouragement is the thing that keeps me from giving up. Sometimes, I start, quit for a while and pick it back up. But, guess what, I pick it back up! Thanks again.
Congrats Zach. I'm a big TED fan and watch many people in various fields. I was excited to hear you were asked to be on TED. I watched you twice. Your presentation was great, saw you held everyone's interest but really piqued their interest with your story and playing. You proved three points that night. One was you could learn from an instructor on the internet. if you have what it takes you can be successful working the internet for a living. Last if you work at it you can play piano. Lets not forget the right instructor makes a world of difference. Seems to be many are in agreement a guy named Zach is the man to go to on the internet to learn how to play the piano.
What a great TED talk! You're awesome Zach! I loved it!
Good to see you Zach on this stage of prominence.. You ignited my passion to learn piano again.. I started piano when I was 12 but lost out because my teacher was not helping.. Watching some of your tutorials I have started savings towards buying a piano. Key take out is Motivation over information..
Thanks Judah! Glad it could help motivate you :)
Nice job! Motivation is tough but sounds like you've got a good solution.
100% agree!
PHENOMENAL TALK ZACH!!!!!😍. Thrilled to see you give a TED talk....Congratulations🎉🎉🎉. You always share “Nuggets of GOLD”✅😀. This truly was a Great Talk!!! I treasure All the programs I have of yours!!! GOD Bless you in ALL you do, “Gee”
Thanks Geralyn!!! 😀😀😀 So glad you enjoyed it!
Aw So Happy you saw my comment Zach! (Watching your talk again!). Watching several Ted Talks Today!
Learning how to cook: spirally noodles with ham and cheese.
From there on you can do variations. Herbs, pepper, a little milk. Or put carrots before water starts boiling. Exchange noodles with rice. Try other vegetables.
Very true. Just a question of motivation, discipline and priorities.
I still hope to be a decent player at 60, time's running out. I'm really glad you did this TED talk Zach, you are fantastic and really inspiring. Keep it up, you really are helping lots of people!
Thank you! And keep workin at it, you'll get there! 💪
Congrats! Zach. Have been an online student of yours for many years!
Awesome Chen, glad to hear it!!
It’s so true. It’s much more fun to learn piano if you’re given the simplest tools to achieve the goal. I’m playing more in 4 weeks via chord charting than I ever could in my 2 years of keyboard fundamentals classes in college. And in doing it this way, the theory isn’t just head knowledge anymore, it’s becoming tangible as I play.
Thanks Zach to send me this video with your comments of how I can improve my playing. Motivation is not my problem I has practice for at least 2 hours a day , but really enjoy the pattern you used. I'll try it. Happy to be one of your students.
You're just awesome Zach!. you are such a motivator,, I watch all your instructional videos and use your techniques in my daily practice.. All the instructions you give are very helpful and very motivating.. thanks Zach for helping me with my piano practice.
Thank you so much Mary!! Your kind words mean a lot keep up the good work!
Thanks a lot, I’ve been following your teachings for months. Anyone can play piano as long as they put the time and effort into it. I’m planning on buying your book.
I've been following Zach for a few years and really like his method.
Hey Jelena, glad you like it! Thanks for the comment :)
Thanks Zach, I like the way you summarise the whole talk by turning it around to other general life situation, Thanks again
You're welcome, really glad you enjoyed the talk!
The 'zillion' positive comments here on your presentation pretty much say it all:
You were very 'cool' up there on stage, giving a thoroughly smooth, professional and entertaining presentation (your hard work certainly paid off!
sing your specialty to illustrate the more global subject of MOTIVATION was brilliant!
And . . . I’m SURE that many folks have decided to give piano 'a try' based on YOUR enthusiasm.
Also . . . it was FUN to actually see someone I 'know' give a TED Talk!
I WILL pass on this link to a couple of friends I’ve been TRYING to interest in piano,
who insist that they just don’t have what it takes. Fingers crossed . . .
Thanks Hannah!! So glad you liked it :)
And thanks for spreading the word 💪
Fantastic Zach! Audience response was right-on and wonderful. Thanks for sharing.
No problem Don, glad yo liked it!
Zach, congratulation, well done. I knew you were the best at at teaching piano, now many more will have the experience of hearing you at your best.
Thank you Joanne, happy that you're liking the lessons 😄
Zach is an inspiring Piano teacher. He genuinely cares about his online students. If you are thinking of learning piano you need to check out his website.
Thanks for the kind words!! Glad you're enjoying the lessons
Good job Zach! I'm impressed with not only your beautiful piano skills, but also your ambition and hard work as an entrepreneur starting these online classes. I hope you continue to grow and succeed.
Thanks Elita, the kind words mean a lot :)
Hi Zach, we watched your ted talk too, it was wonderful ... I would love to hear on your podcast how this all came about. I am so proud to know you did a TED talk and that it was not only informative of one of your main messages, but that it was natural and balanced. Super job, AND you looked like you were enjoying yourself!!
Hey Ann!! Thanks for the comment. Great idea, I'll work on making a podcast episode on it :)
Great Job Zach, you hit the nail on the head, motivation is the key! I truly enjoy the PSH courses.
Thanks a ton John, really good to hear you're enjoying the courses :)