Piano and organ programs teach people how to play and perform on musical keyboards. Students learn to read musical notes, play scales with proper fingering, and operate pedals. They learn to play solos and to accompany other musicians.

On the talent and skills required to play the clavichord (a type of keyboard instrument), Johann Sebastian Bach once said, "There's nothing remarkable about it. All one has to do is hit the right keys at the right time, and the instrument plays itself."

For those of you who are - shall we say - less assured of your mastery of the organ, piano, or any other keyboard instrument, you should consider this program of study. As a student in this program, you may learn to play the piano or organ from scratch or continue your studies from previous instruction.

You take courses that supplement your flair for playing with technical skills that give you a solid foundation. This includes proper fingering techniques, playing scales, and reading music. You study music theory and history for similar reasons. Understanding music in wider terms helps you switch from someone who dabbles in the piano or the organ to someone committed to becoming a pianist or organist.

Even if you do not want to play these instruments professionally, this program of study prepares you for many other careers. For instance, many graduate programs in other fields of music, such as other instruments or music history, require you to have basic keyboarding skills. Playing the piano is regarded as a skill fundamental to continuing music studies.

Moreover, the discipline it takes to develop your craft and individual sound translates to any other field that requires the same level of dedication.

Many colleges and universities offer degree programs in piano and organ performance. You can earn a bachelor's, master's, or even a doctoral degree in these programs. In general, a bachelor's degree takes about four years of full-time study after high school and a master's degree about one to two years after that. If you want to pursue a doctoral degree as well, you usually need about three to four additional years.

In addition, community colleges and independent schools of music also provide instruction. You can typically earn a certificate of performance or an associate degree from these institutions with one to two years of full-time study.

You may be able to choose a concentration within piano and organ degree programs. Possible areas of focus include:

• Choral Accompaniment
• Early Keyboard Instruments
• Piano Chamber Music and Accompaniment