Category: Hints and tips

As a piano student, you’ve probably heard your teacher talk about playing with feeling and expression. But what does that actually mean, and how can you learn to do it? Here are some tips to help you tap into your emotions and play piano with feeling.

1. Connect with the music: Try to understand the emotions that the composer was trying to express in the piece you’re playing. Is it joyful, melancholy, energetic, or something else entirely? Let those emotions guide your playing.

2. Listen to recordings: Listen to recordings of professional pianists playing the piece you’re learning. Pay attention to how they use dynamics, phrasing, and tempo to create emotion and expression.

3. Use your imagination: Imagine a story or scene that the music might be expressing. Let that story inform your playing, and try to convey it to your audience.

4. Experiment with dynamics: Don’t be afraid to play with volume and intensity. Use crescendos and diminuendos to create contrast and drama.

5. Shape the phrases: Think about how the melody rises and falls, and try to create a sense of direction and purpose in your playing.

6. Use rubato: Don’t be afraid to play with tempo, speeding up and slowing down slightly to create expressiveness.

7. Trust your instincts: Don’t be too caught up in the technical aspects of playing. Trust your instincts and let your emotions guide your playing.

Remember, playing with feeling takes time and practice, but the more you work on it, the more expressive and emotional your playing will become. So don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it!

Welcome to another exciting post where we dive deep into the art of making piano practice not just productive but also incredibly fun! Today, we’re drawing inspiration from a fantastic approach that emphasizes creativity and enjoyment in musical education.

Introduction: Why Fun Matters in Practice Learning the piano requires dedication and countless hours of practice, but who says it can’t be fun? Incorporating enjoyable elements into your practice sessions can boost motivation and make the learning process something to look forward to each day.

Creative Exercises to Transform Your Practice

1. Mixing Rhythms: One of the most effective ways to spice up your piano practice is by playing with different rhythms. Whether you’re practicing scales, arpeggios, or pieces, try integrating varied rhythmic patterns. For instance, switch between triplets, sixteenth notes, and syncopated rhythms to challenge your timing and dexterity.
2. Play with Dynamics: Dynamics aren’t just for expression; they can be a tool for fun, too! Practice your scales or your favorite pieces by dramatically changing the dynamics. Start pianissimo (very soft), crescendo to fortissimo (very loud), and then diminuendo back to soft. This not only helps with your expressive skills but keeps the practice engaging.
3. Incorporate Technology: Use apps and online tools that gamify learning. For example, rhythm trainers or digital platforms that provide real-time feedback can make your practice sessions feel like playing a video game.
4. Musical Storytelling: Turn a piece of music into a story, where each section represents a different character or scene. This approach helps you to think creatively about the music and find new ways to express yourself through your playing.

Conclusion: Keep the Fun Alive Remember, the goal of integrating fun into your practice sessions is to make the learning process enjoyable and sustainable. By varying your routine and challenging yourself with new, playful exercises, you’ll not only become a better pianist but also look forward to each practice session with eager anticipation.

Call to Action Try out these fun exercises in your next practice session and see how they transform your approach to the piano. Happy practicing!