Key Sounds UK • May 6, 2020

HOW TO MASTER YOUR HAND POSITION WHEN PLAYING THE PIANO

Poor technique, failing to warm-up before playing, and simple nerves can cause a ton of tension and discomfort in the 35 muscles which we have in each of our hands, and in turn, a load of frustration.⁠ Whilst there are many ways to ensure your hand position is correct, our top two favourites are the Finger Lift and Pencil Balancing Exercises!

Therefore, a commitment to exercising your hands before playing the piano every time means longer, uninterrupted, and easier practice sessions/lessons, and may also prevent any injuries.⁠

Typically, when you’re playing the piano you want to keep the wrist and arm flat so that the weight from the shoulder and the back can come straight down right through the tips of the fingers. To help keep your wrist in a good position, try to balance a pencil on your hand so that your wrist is in line with your knuckl es.

  • Pencil Balance Exercise
  • Finger Lift Exercise

As seen in the image you can do this at your convenience on a table or on your piano or keyboard.⁠

If you are on a flat surface or table place your hand on the surface and ensure that your fingers are curved (as if you were shaking someone’s hand) and ensure your wrist lies flat.⁠

Then, one at a time, lift each finger, without moving the other ones. Similarly, if you are at your piano, push down all of the keys at the same time, then lift up one finger at a time, without moving the others.

If this becomes too easy for you, try lifting each finger several times before moving onto the next one. Once you’ve done this, repeat this exercise exactly the same way with your other hand.⁠

Give them a go and let us know how you get on!

For more tips and tricks follow us on Instagram: @keysoundsuk or Facebook: www.facebook.com/keysoundsuk

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