![]() The left side of the thumb, near the tip, is touching the key while the rest of your fingers curl around an imaginary ball. If you want to be precise, then find Middle C by following the instructions in Chapter 4 - Starting to Play Piano. We will go over correct starting position in the next chapter, but for now, any white key around the centre of the keyboard will do. Even if they move in exaggerated gestures, they can quickly move between soft and aggressive notes. They have total control over the energy they transfer to the notes. Imagine a world-class concert pianist, or watch a video. If you have seen players hammering the keyboard, every note the same volume and intensity, then you know what can happen if you get it wrong. Now, we try to ensure that you are able to play each note with maximum range, to get the most out of the instrument. We introduced the idea in the Chapter 1 - Choosing a Piano or Keyboard when talking about how much range the piano has. It’s all about control over the notes and maximising dynamic range (the range of volumes available to the player). You took your time to sit properly, so you should also take the time to play the keys properly. Your fingers should be parallel to the keys, hovering somewhere above the middle of the white keys, close to the where the black keys begin (not on the edge). Once you’re comfortable, lay your hands either side of the center of the keyboard. If you hold tension in your shoulders as most people do, roll them over and back a few times, then let your arms hang loose by your sides. This puts pressure on your back and shoulders. Your head is heavy, so avoid craning to look down at the keys. Fight the urge to hunch or curve your spine. Don’t worry, your core will get stronger very quickly, and the position will soon feel natural. Sitting like this may be tiring at first, especially if you are used to sitting on chairs that support your back. Imagine a line all the way along your spine from your seat to the top of your head. They are simply transferring energy from their entire body into the keys, so here we guide you on how to do the same. Concert pianists who seem to make elaborate motions are playing with utter control. Your entire body is involved in playing the piano. It is true that only the fingertips make contact with the keys, but your fingers should never do all the work alone. You might have to try a few combinations to get it right, but it’ll be worth it. ![]() If a piece concentrates on one part of the piano, then it’s fine to shift so you don’t end up leaning over to one side. Don’t shift along the seat, but keep your position strong and reach out for the higher and lower keys. Now your lower body is fixed, with firm feet and hips, it won’t move much. ![]() A good angle for your knees is roughly ninety degrees, but it doesn’t have to be exact. Again, make sure you use something comfortable but firm. If your feet aren’t flat on the floor with your arms in the correct position, you can add height to the ground using a mat or carpet. Certain pieces use a lot of pedal work, so bear that in mind when getting comfortable. Later, it will be important to move your feet freely from this resting position to use the pedals. Place your feet flat on the ground below your knees, not under the bench or off to the sides. As you progress, it is a good idea to return to this chapter to continually adjust and correct your technique. This chapter covers all elements of proper piano technique, from setting up your playing environment, to how your fingers interact with the keys. If you have ever suffered after writing or typing all day, you will know what this feels like.įixing bad physical technique can be tricky, so it’s important to develop good habits from the start. Improper hand technique can give you stiff fingers and limit your dexterity even away from the keyboard. Bad seat positioning or posture can cause pain or discomfort in the shoulders, neck and back. Incorrect technique makes playing more difficult, tiring, and it can put unnecessary strain on your body. It’s not just about making good playing better. Get it right and you can play with expression and a vast dynamic range. Correct sitting position and posture will allow you to translate energy from your entire body to the fingertips. Everything from the way you sit to how you drop your fingers onto the keyboard will affect the sound of the piano. Playing with proper piano technique is not just about pushing the right keys.
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