{"id":16895,"date":"2024-04-12T15:01:11","date_gmt":"2024-04-12T22:01:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/?p=16895"},"modified":"2024-08-01T10:26:13","modified_gmt":"2024-08-01T17:26:13","slug":"ultimate-piano-technique","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/ultimate-piano-technique\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Piano Technique Resource"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Piano technique is so, so important. But&#8230; <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s also an intimidating and frustrating topic for beginners. In fact, we can already hear the groans from the back of the room! Which is understandable\u2014one mention of \u201cpiano technique\u201d and hours of monotonous scales come to mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As piano educators, we\u2019re dedicated to teaching what needs to be taught\u2026but in a way that\u2019s interesting, rewarding, and enjoyable. This article is a collection of our best piano technique content on this website, all in one handy place. It includes everything from the \u201cwhy\u201d of technique to how to make practice <em>fun<\/em>. (Yup, technique can be fun!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\" id=\"rank-math-toc\"><p><strong>Table of Contents:<\/strong><\/p><nav><ol><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#why-piano-technique\">Why Piano Technique?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#posture\">Posture<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#scales\">Scales<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#chords\">Chords<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#arpeggios\">Arpeggios<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#pedaling\">Pedaling<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#hanon\">Hanon<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#articulation\">Articulation<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#metronome-practice\">Metronome Practice<\/a><\/li><li class=\"\"><a href=\"#make-piano-technique-less-boring\">Make Piano Technique Less Boring<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"blue-text-block\"><center><h2 style=\"font-size:22px\"><b>\ud83c\udfb9 Your Go-To Place for All Things Piano<\/b><\/h2><p>Get exclusive interviews, fascinating articles, and inspiring lessons delivered straight to your inbox.<\/p><iframe class=\"email-form-include\" src=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/weeklyemail\" frameborder=\"none\"><\/iframe><\/center><small><i>By signing up you\u2019ll also receive our ongoing free lessons and special offers. Don\u2019t worry, we value your privacy and you can unsubscribe at any time.<\/i><\/small><\/span>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"why-piano-technique\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Why Piano Technique?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re a fairly experienced piano player who can play songs, you might wonder: what\u2019s the point of technique practice? Isn\u2019t the point of learning piano to play the songs you love?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But everyone\u2014even expert concert pianists\u2014can improve by practicing proper piano technique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Piano technique isn&#8217;t just about playing fast. It\u2019s also about dynamics and articulation. Technique is what takes you from making sound to making music. The better your technique, the more control you&#8217;ll have over your sound, the more you can do with this instrument.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>&gt; <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/importance-of-piano-technique\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Importance of Piano Technique<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"posture\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Posture<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Proper Posture At The Piano\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/E8Do4oxTJ1k?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s start with the bare basics: how we sit at the piano. This is important because to progress in piano, you want to play as comfortably and for as long as you can.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some simple posture tips to remember:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sit nice and tall with a straight back.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Have your feet flat on the floor. If you can\u2019t reach the floor, place your feet on a stack of books or footstool. You can also scooch to the edge of your seat\u2014this can give you more control.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Your knees should be <em>just<\/em> underneath the edge of the piano.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make sure your arms have a relaxed angle to them. Don\u2019t hold them straight, but don\u2019t be too scrunched up against the piano either.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong>Hand Posture<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Pay special attention<\/strong> to the positioning of your hands, wrists, and arms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Avoid droopy wrists! Pretend there\u2019s an invisible puppet string holding up your wrists and a bubble underneath your hand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Have your fingers in their natural, curved position. Don\u2019t play with straight or flat fingers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Proper Hand Posture At The Piano\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rZznie6UU_o?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Piano posture lessons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/posture-at-the-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Proper Posture at the Piano<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/proper-hand-posture-at-the-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Proper Hand Posture at the Piano<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/perfect-posture-at-the-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Sit at the Piano (A Chiropractor&#8217;s Guide)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"scales\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Scales<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"The BEST Way To Practice Piano Scales\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/l3q0d81D0Ag?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cScales are like vegetables.\u201d<\/p>\n<cite>Lisa Witt<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Many piano students dread scales. But scale patterns are found everywhere in music. You can\u2019t avoid them!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Scales don\u2019t just improve your dexterity, coordination, and speed. Practicing scales in all twelve keys helps you <a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/jC0RKKRbChI?si=BDXPiQy3wWgcYd-E&amp;t=48\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">internalize the shapes<\/a> and key signatures of different keys. So, drilling your scales is both mental and physical training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some tips to help make scales more enjoyable:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If the thought of doing all twelve keys of scales overwhelms you, focus on just one or two keys per practice session.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Practice scales in different articulations, such as staccato, legato, and tenuto.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Instead of focusing so much on the thumb tuck, try the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/how-to-play-scales-fast\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">burst exercise<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make your scales musical by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/make-scales-fun\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pairing them with a chord progression<\/a>, which further strengthens your understanding of that key!<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Practice with a backing track. <a href=\"https:\/\/d1923uyy6spedc.cloudfront.net\/Scales-backing-track-1687815766.mp3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Here\u2019s<\/a> a free one.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Scale resources:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/piano-scales\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Piano Scales: Types of Scales and How to Apply Them<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/how-to-practice-piano-scales\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Practice Piano Scales: Play-Along Lesson<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/how-to-play-scales-fast\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Play Scales FAST (The Jordan Rudess Juilliard Approach)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/make-scales-fun\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Make Scales Fun (I Bet You Didn\u2019t Know They Could Sound Like This!)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"chords\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Chords<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"The Best Way To Practice Chords\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/gBvFGkwqWEI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Music is made up of chords. Like scales, learning your chord shapes not only trains your physical dexterity, it develops your theory knowledge too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Practice your chords solid (notes together) or broken (notes apart). And make sure you practice your inversions too. Doing so will help you quickly transition between chords and recognize chords in sheet music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>C Major Diatonic Chords: Solid<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"137\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095207\/c-diatonic-solid-1024x137.png\" alt=\"C major diatonic chords in solid form.\" class=\"wp-image-16905\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095207\/c-diatonic-solid-1024x137.png 1024w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095207\/c-diatonic-solid-300x40.png 300w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095207\/c-diatonic-solid-768x103.png 768w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095207\/c-diatonic-solid-1536x205.png 1536w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095207\/c-diatonic-solid-2048x273.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>C Major Diatonic Chords: Broken<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"156\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095221\/c-diatonic-broken-1024x156.png\" alt=\"C major diatonic chords in broken form.\" class=\"wp-image-16906\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095221\/c-diatonic-broken-1024x156.png 1024w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095221\/c-diatonic-broken-300x46.png 300w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095221\/c-diatonic-broken-768x117.png 768w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095221\/c-diatonic-broken-1536x233.png 1536w, https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/04095221\/c-diatonic-broken-2048x311.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Chord resources:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/all-piano-chords\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Play ALL Piano Chords (Major, Minor, 7ths)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/the-best-way-to-practice-chords\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Best Way to Practice Chords<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/how-to-practice-chord-inversions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Practice Chord Inversions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong>Chords &amp; Scales Library<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Need a quick reference to play the chord or scale you&#8217;re practicing? Head on over to our free chords and scales library: the most important scales and chords in EVERY key!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>Bmaj7 Chord<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/17145740\/B-Major-7-Root-2048x520.png\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><strong>B Major Scale<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.musora.com\/musora-cdn\/image\/quality=85\/https:\/\/pianote-blog.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/02143048\/B-Major-Scale-2048x520.png\" alt=\"\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<center><a class=\"join\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/chords-and-scales\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Chords &#038; Scales Library<\/a><\/center>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-cyan-bluish-gray-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-cyan-bluish-gray-background-color has-background is-style-wide\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"arpeggios\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Arpeggios<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Arpeggios 101 (Beginner Piano Lesson)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/xbYIArqfwSQ?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Chords are related to arpeggios. Like scales, you\u2019ll find arpeggios in piano music everywhere. They sound beautiful and can look very impressive, so this is a popular (and essential!) concept among piano students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most arpeggios require a lot of movement, so remember to stay loose and don\u2019t just rely on your wrist\u2014you should be rotating your entire forearm from the elbow to lead your fingers through the arpeggio.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Start with an easy cross-over arpeggio first. Then, when you\u2019ve gotten more comfortable with chord shapes, try fancier things like adding a 9th.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arpeggio practice lessons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/what-is-an-arpeggio-piano\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Beginner\u2019s Guide to Piano Arpeggios and Patterns<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/arpeggio-practice\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Arpeggio Practice &#8211; The FUN Way!<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/10-minute-arpeggio-practice-in-f-sharp-minor\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">10-Minute Arpeggio Practice in F-Sharp Minor<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/7b9j5BS3KME?si=vksaeptklSteMzLK\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jordan Rudess Teaches Arpeggios (How to Play FAST)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"pedaling\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Pedaling<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Sound INSTANTLY Better (How To Use The Pedal)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/EkE7tlmuAlc?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Playing piano is a full-body affair! So don\u2019t neglect your footwork. Some quick pedaling tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Anchor your heel to the ground and pedal with the ball of your foot. This position gives you the most control.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Practice playing a scale or set of chords and lift the pedal with each note or chord, ensuring your notes are sustained but clear.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Be careful not to overpedal. Don\u2019t rely on the pedal to sound good. Learn how to play legato <em>without <\/em>the pedal so that when you do use it, the pedal will sound <em>extra<\/em> nice!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>My rule of thumb when using the sustain pedal is to lift it each time there is a chord change or a change in harmony. If you don\u2019t know how to tell if there has been a change in harmony, go with your instincts. Your ear will be able to tell you if your sound has become muddy and you need to release the pedal.<\/p>\n<cite>Lisa Witt<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>Pedaling lessons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/how-piano-pedals-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How Piano Pedals Work<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/how-to-use-the-sustain-pedal\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How To Use The Sustain Pedal (Sound INSTANTLY Better)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hanon\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Hanon<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"The Most Versatile Exercise On The Piano (For Developing Finger Control, Speed, and Dexterity)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/AjBg2aYsJvU?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve never tried Hanon exercises before, you need to start today! These exercises have been used for centuries and for good reason: they work out <em>everything. <\/em>Hanon exercises are unique patterns that get your fingers moving in new ways, developing their dexterity and flexibility. They work your brain too because they\u2019re not as predictable as a straightforward scale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Want Hanon exercises in a neat and portable package? Check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/shop\/little-book-bundle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Little Book of Hanon<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hanon lessons:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/hanon-the-most-versatile-exercise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hanon: The Most Versatile Exercise on the Piano<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/classical-piano-exercises\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">3 Classical Piano Exercises for Master Playing<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"articulation\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Articulation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Articulation can make a <em>huge<\/em> difference. It\u2019s what makes Bach sound Baroque and Chopin sound Romantic. It\u2019s how we recognize a Thelonious Monk recording from a Bill Evans one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Bill Evans, &#039;Round Midnight\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/3QwiTYBzU68?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Bill Evans: Soft, round, flowy.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Thelonious Monk Quartet - &#039;Round Midnight\" width=\"500\" height=\"375\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-yg7aZpIXRI?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\">Thelonious Monk: percussive, jagged, abrupt<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Articulation is a skill that develops over a pianist\u2019s career, but beginners can get started with it right away. If you\u2019re using sheet music, pay special attention to slurs, staccatos, accents, and phrasing and don\u2019t skip them. If your sheet music comes with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/piano-terms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">non-English terms<\/a>, look them up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you play from chord charts and lead sheets, write out your own articulations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Articulation resources:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/most-important-piano-exercises\/#control\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u201cBeautifully Simple\u201d Articulation Exercise<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/piano-terms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Complete Piano Terms Glossary: Piano Words You Should Know<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"metronome-practice\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Metronome Practice<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How To Use a Metronome (Piano Practice Tips)\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/XGKdMYSitAY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Metronome practice elicits groans in many piano studios, but the metronome truly is an indispensable tool for progression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>The metronome is like your musical GPS. It keeps you on the right track and makes sure you get to your destination in perfect time.<\/p>\n<cite>Lisa Witt<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>The key to not getting frustrated with your metronome is to start at a way slower tempo and increase speed in small increments (3-5 bpm). If you struggle with feeling the beat, try subdividing rhythms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"make-piano-technique-less-boring\" style=\"font-size:32px\"><strong>Make Piano Technique Less Boring<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Still bored of scales, chords, and arpeggios? Try a play-along exercise! Having something or someone to play along with is more engaging. And it feels like playing with other musicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We have tons of play-along exercises in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/trial\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pianote Members Area<\/a>. But we have them for free too! These are some of our favorites:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/piano-practice-routine-for-beginners\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Piano Practice Routine for Beginners (Not Boring)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/make-scales-fun\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Make Scales Fun<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/beautiful-piano-warmups\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Most Beautiful Piano Warm-Up Exercises<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/d-minor-practice-routine\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A Complete Practice Routine in D Minor<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Good luck on your piano technique and happy practicing!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<span class=\"blue-text-block\"><center><h2 style=\"font-size:22px\"><b>\ud83c\udfb9 Learn Piano With Real Teachers<\/b><\/h2><p>The best way to learn piano is with real teachers, but not everyone has the time and money for a private instructor. At Pianote, you can get real feedback from real experts\u2026all from the comfort of your own home. Explore our Method and community yourself with a free 7-day trial.<\/p><p><\/p><a class=\"join\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/trial\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TRY PIANOTE FOR 7 DAYS<\/a><\/center><p><\/p><\/span>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Look no further. Here is everything you need to play faster, articulate better, and master piano technique.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":49,"featured_media":15348,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[509],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-16895","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-technique"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16895","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/49"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16895"}],"version-history":[{"count":25,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16895\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17790,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16895\/revisions\/17790"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/15348"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16895"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=16895"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.pianote.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=16895"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}