When we pick up a brand new music, most of us just care about getting the notes right followed by getting the rhythm right. Isn’t music just about getting the notes and rhythm right? Of course not! Some of my students wonder why I still want them to work on a piece which they can play correctly in terms of notes and rhythm. It’s because I’m teaching student playing piano not typing piano.
Typing piano is more straight forward. Just “Type” the notes out on the right beat. That’s all! How does it sound when you “Type” piano? It sounds like typing with no expressions. Nowadays, we don’t need a teacher to teach us type. It’s the same for piano, everyone can master “TYPing” piano without an instructor.
Whereas PLAYing piano is about setting the atmosphere, conveying mood or feelings to the audience. But what exactly do you need to do? First, you need a knowledgable and experienced piano teacher. The teacher will help you with the correct touch, dynamics (loud and soft), phrasing and colours of the piece. Pay attention to all the markings on the sheet. They are as important as the notes and rhythm. Look at the title of the music. If it’s a Nocturn, it should be soft and quiet. If it’s a Waltz, it’s a 3 beats dance (Strong-weak-weak). Know all the italian words on the music. They are the hints. Listen to the sound you make. Play to the bottom of the keys to produce a rich and warm tone. Avoid hammering down from above which produces a harsh sound or play half way down the keys which produces a whispering sound. A qualified piano teacher can help you with all of the aspects.
