[cprncus]

I would think having a great piano teacher would be key (pardon the pun). S/he is a coach, a motivator, someone who knows how to spot and correct your form (which is critical), knows which pieces are useful as studies at which points in your development, can help guide you through theory, etc. What's not to love?

A kindly woman in her late 50s with glasses that are attached with decorative chains that loop around her neck is preferable.