Fundamental Aspects of Piano Technique

Good technique is key to mastering any instrument. In addition to facilitating quicker movement around the instrument, proper technique also helps prevent injury (every musician’s worst nightmare!). This article explains three crucial aspects of piano technique which should be practiced by pianists of every skill level. Keeping these points in mind will help virtually any pianist both improve their facility at the keys and reduce their chances of strain or discomfort.

1. Relaxation

It is extremely important for the body to remain relaxed while playing. Pianists should always focus on minimizing tension in the limbs, from the shoulders and arms down to the hands and fingers. There are variety of exercises that can help reduce tension throughout the arms, hands, and fingers.

2. Posture

Proper posture is equally important. When sitting at the piano, make sure you’re sitting upright with your spine straight, your hand curved (as though you were grabbing an orange), and all the fingers relaxed. Your hands should be at the same height as the keyboard when sitting totally upright; if they’re not, you may need to raise or lower your piano bench.

3. Finger Independence

Pianists should strive to maximize the independence of each finger. When one finger is playing, all the others should be still and completely relaxed. Keeping the hands curved (like holding an orange) is necessary to achieve independence and strength in the fingers. You should always feel the weight of your relaxed arm in your hands and wrists—if you don’t, then there’s probably too much tension in your lower arms.

Perhaps the most important factor in developing good piano technique is having a great teacher. While technique can be practiced alone, it’s important to have a mentor who can observe your progress, identify the weaknesses in your practice habits, and make recommendations for improvement. Practice doesn’t make perfect—perfect practice makes perfect. This is why having a qualified teacher is so important: to ensure that you’re practicing correctly, rather than reinforcing bad habits through repetition. The value of a good teacher cannot be overstated.

Great technique requires persistence, dedication and a lot of practice. Believe me, it’s worth the effort—the better your technique, the more quickly your playing will improve.

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