Piano Skills Every Beginner Should Learn

Piano Skills Every Beginner Should Learn

As you start to learn how to play the piano, there are foundational skills you’ll need to pick up to make the most of your learning experience.  Developing your piano skills involves more than just knowing where the notes are. It’s also about building finger strength and dexterity through regular practice.  As your confidence grows, … Read more

Piano Warm-up Exercises for Beginners: Essential for New Pianists

Piano Warm-up Exercises for Beginners

Starting to learn the piano is like any new skill; it requires a solid base upon which to build. One of the first things you’ll encounter on this path is the importance of warm-ups. These aren’t just simple exercises; they’re the foundation for developing finger strength, dexterity, and the muscle memory necessary for more complex … Read more

How to Sit at a Piano: Achieving Proper Posture

How to Sit at a Piano

When you’re learning to play the piano, where you may focus a lot on scales, chords, and arpeggios, it’s easy to overlook a fundamental aspect – how you sit at the piano. Yet, proper posture is critical. Sitting correctly enhances your playing technique and prevents unnecessary strain or injury. Proper piano posture ensures that you’re … Read more

How Many Octaves Are on a Piano? Answered

How Many Octaves Are on a Piano?

Understanding the number of octaves on a piano is essential if you’re dipping your toes into the world of music theory or just curious about the instrument. An octave on a piano spans eight notes in a scale, where the first and last notes are the same letter but have pitches that are double or … Read more

What Are Pianos Made Of? (Materials and Craftsmanship)

What Are Pianos Made Of?

Throughout its history, the piano has evolved from its early ancestors, like the harpsichord and clavichord, with notable improvements credited to Bartolomeo Cristofori in the 18th century.  Whether it is a grand or upright model, the materials are precisely engineered to create the powerful and nuanced sounds associated with the piano. As you take a … Read more

Proper Piano Hand Position for Improved Playing

Proper Piano Hand Position for Improved Playing

Mastering the proper piano hand position is crucial for any pianist who wants to play comfortably and prevent strain or injury. When you sit at a piano, your hands should be positioned on the keys with a gentle, natural curve as if you’re holding an invisible ball. This allows for ease of movement and helps … Read more

Hand Stretches for Piano Players (Good for Agility and Injury Prevention)

Hand Stretches for Piano Players

Hand stretches are essential for pianists looking to improve their playing technique. As a pianist, you already know the importance of dexterity, strength, and flexibility in your fingers and hands. Regularly incorporating hand stretches into your practice routine can enhance your ability to execute challenging passages and help prevent strain or injury. Playing the piano … Read more

Can You Play Piano with Small Hands?

Can You Play Piano with Small Hands

Many aspiring pianists worry that having small hands might hinder their ability to play the piano effectively. The concern is understandable, as the piano traditionally favors those with a broader reach. Yet, it’s important to realize that hand size may be less of a barrier than it first appears. The key to success often lies … Read more

Can You Play Piano with Long Nails?

Can You Play Piano with Long Nails?

Playing the piano is a skill that involves not just your fingers but your entire hand and even your posture. When it comes to nail length, traditionally, it’s suggested to keep your nails short so they don’t interfere with your playing. Although long nails may present a challenge, they don’t make it impossible to play … Read more