The age of the beginner - and the final intent - are very important.

Many folks can have "fun" without a single lesson.

If you intend to "play" then a minimum of three years with ANY instructor will send you on your way.

If you want to sight-read,transpose,accompany,play-by-ear in ALL formats (classical, jazz, pop, blues (genre ranked in order of difficulty)) then a MIMIMUM of FIVE and up to a LIFETIME of lessons from a Trained Piano Instructor even the pros - still take lessons.

Sincerely,
Gargoyle

This ain't a funky A$$ guitar/banjo/dulcimer you are talking about...this is a full orchestra....only thing bigger is an organ....