We all want to practice piano more effectively and efficiently, especially if we don’t have hours in the day to hone our skills (most of us practice in shorter intervals). So, to develop better habits and techniques here are a few simple reminders before we begin our practice:
Step 1: Check your posture
Sit toward the front half of the bench, both feet on the floor and with a straight spine. Your arms should emulate a ninety degree angle with fore arms straight and hands in a curved, round shape. Make sure your shoulders are relaxed. In fact, check in often to make sure that your shoulders are down and relaxed and that tension is not creeping in to ANY part of your body. Stay fluid and relaxed!
Step 2: Breathe
Take a deep relaxing breath before you begin and remember to breathe as you play. Too often budding pianists hold their breath! This will only cause tension to take over so maintain momentum with regular, consistent breathing.
Step 3: Focus on the measure that really needs work
Instead of repeating entire sections in efforts to master a piece, make better use of your time by focusing on one or two measures at a time. Take the time to dissect the measure’s notation, rhythm counting and fingering. Then practice that measure mindfully at a very slow tempo (giving yourself time to count aloud or double-check notes or fingering). Then as you gain confidence you can slowly bring your tempo up to speed as you repeat the measure over and over. Soon your fingers will have “memorized” that tricky measure and you’ll be able to play through it with expression and ease!