What Is Stride Piano? And How To Play It

What Is Stride Piano

Stride piano is a jazz piano technique that emerged in the early 20th century, primarily from the Harlem Renaissance scene. It’s a dynamic and complex style of play that’s evolved from earlier forms like ragtime.  Stride piano is characterized by a rhythmic, percussive left-hand accompaniment that ‘strides’ across the keyboard. This involves the left hand … Read more

How To Play Piano Without Looking At The Keys: Playing by Feel

How To Play Piano Without Looking At The Keys

Learning to play the piano without looking at the keys can feel like a daunting task, especially if you’re a beginner. However, this skill is essential for improving your technique and becoming more confident in your performances. It’s all about developing muscle memory and a good sense of spatial awareness on the keyboard. As you … 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

Does Hand Size Matter in Piano? – (Answered)

Hand size piano

If you’re just starting out as a pianist, you might be struggling to reach certain keys even as you start to improve. Or perhaps your child is getting frustrated sitting in front of an instrument so much larger than them. This can naturally lead you to ask whether hand size matters while playing the piano. … Read more

Pianist Hands vs Normal Hands – Explained

piano hands vs normal hands

If you’re beginning to take up the piano, you might despair about the size of your hands. It seems like all the best musicians have large hands with long, slender fingers – isn’t that what you need to play the piano? What is the difference between average-sized hands and piano players’ hands?  While some professional … Read more

Do Professional Pianists Practice Scales?

do professional pianists practice scales

It can be mesmerizing watching concert pianists as they play piano concertos or masterpieces from Bach and Beethoven. It’s hard to think that those professionals started with simple skills like learning notes, scales, and hand placement. Now they are at the elite level; it could well leave you curious to wonder whether they still need … Read more

What Is the Most Versatile Instrument?

most versatile instrument

If you’re new to the music scene and wonder which instrument is the most versatile and worth your while, you will be able to unlock the answer in this article.  For acoustic instruments, the most versatile would be the piano due to its large range, ability to play different styles and genres, and vast amount … Read more

Is Playing The Piano A Sport? (Explained)

is playing the piano a sport

Playing the piano can be incredibly strenuous, especially for those who practice the piano for many hours every day. This instrument is surprisingly physical, and long practice sessions can leave the player feeling exhausted. The physical exertion needed to play this instrument well for long periods of time leads many to question whether it could … Read more