Eric Johnson, the legendary Austin-born musician, has shared his perspective on the importance of technique in music and explained why he believes every musician should learn to play the piano.
With a career spanning from 1969 and numerous accolades, Johnson has established himself as a virtuoso and one of the key figures in modern guitar playing. Notably, he was a founding member of Joe Satriani’s influential G3 tour, which has helped define the instrumental rock genre. However, despite his expertise in technique, Johnson suggests that musicians should not focus solely on flashy playing.
In a recent interview with The Classic Rock Show, Johnson discussed how technique should serve the creation of good music rather than become its main focus. Reflecting on some of his musical influences, he emphasized that successful musicians always prioritize the music over technique, stating (via Ultimate Guitar):
“If you look behind the curtain on all of them, it’s just good music. It’s deep technique, but the technique is subordinated to creating good music. It’s the fuel, but it’s not the focus as much.”
Though Johnson is renowned for his guitar skills, his musical journey began on the piano during his childhood. He explained why he believes that learning to play the piano can be a beneficial experience for every musician, even if they don’t become proficient pianists:
“I feel every musician should [learn to play the piano]. It doesn’t mean that they have to become a great pianist. But I think it’s an opportunity because when you sit at the piano, it’s as if you’re building a house and you get a chance to see the whole property from above. With the piano, you have the ability to see the bass, the rhythm, and the lead all at once, without the limitations that come with other instruments.”
Johnson praised the piano for its versatility, noting that it offers a broader perspective than most other instruments:
“I think a piano’s layout is one of the most unlimited there is. You can play chords and even manage multiple parts simultaneously. While it’s possible to do this on the guitar, as artists like Doyle Dykes, Tommy Emmanuel, and Richard Smith have shown, the piano really stands out as a fantastic tool for writing and offering a broader view of your musical intentions.”
He concluded:
“Plus, if you only focus narrowly on your instrument, you won’t keep an open mind. You won’t be exposed to the same expanded viewpoint that you would if you approached music from a broader perspective.”
Johnson’s comments highlight the importance of both technical skill and a wide-ranging musical understanding in the development of a well-rounded musician.
Related Topics
- Mirai’s Sitars Gain Global Recognition but Face a Fragile Future
- Geoff Tate Recalls Chaos and Courage: Queensrÿche’s Memorable Moment Opening for Metallica
- Jerry Cantrell Reflects on Failed Attempt to Give Axl Rose an Alice in Chains Demo Tape
