Guide to Hanon Piano Exercises

beginner tutorial Jun 05, 2024
 

'The Virtuoso Pianist' by Charles-Louis Hanon, is a staple since 1873. This video is divided into three sections, starting with preparatory exercises, moving on to scale and arpeggio work, and culminating in advanced techniques for mastering technical difficulties. It's recommended to practice these exercises slowly with a metronome, gradually increasing speed, ensuring each note is played meticulously.
Despite their popularity, Hanon's exercises have their critics, with some arguing they lack musicality and overemphasize the left hand, potentially leading to imbalance and tightness. Others question the practicality of dedicating an hour daily to these exercises over other repertoire. For beginners, it's advised to seek a teacher to ensure correct technique and to possibly start with the left hand to address its needs more thoroughly.
Hanon's exercises are celebrated for their simplicity, appeal over scales and arpeggios, and effectiveness in developing finger independence....

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Exploring the Truth Behind High Lifted Piano Fingers

beginner tutorial Jan 25, 2024
 

In the exploration of piano technique, a method once heralded by Hanon involves practicing with high lifted fingers. This technique, though popular years ago, is now often criticized for leading to tension and technical problems. However, the discussion raised a question: Is playing with high lifted fingers entirely detrimental? A closer examination reveals a nuanced view. It's essential to distinguish between fingers being 'high lifted' versus 'just lifted' before pressing a key. Beginners might not lift their fingers at all, leading to overlapping notes due to lack of control over key attacks and releases. Considering our daily routines do not replicate the movements required for piano playing, lifting fingers becomes an unfamiliar, challenging task. To acclimate to this new movement, it's suggested to lift fingers high, albeit in a slow tempo, to enhance control over pressing down and releasing the keys.

However, for fast passages, high lifted fingers are deemed unnecessary and...

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Alberti Bass - most known accompaniment

beginner tutorial Jan 04, 2024
 

In this video I am breaking down the pattern visually for you.

It helps you to recognize the Alberti Bass, teaches you how to use this pattern in your improvisation and gives you some technical tipps (better sound!)

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