Practice Hints:
March 7th, 2012
HOW TO PRACTICE SCALES:
Practice hands alone until the fingering feels natural, then slowly play hands together being careful to use the correct fingering. Your fourth finger only plays one key, so make sure you remember what key that is. This will help you to play correctly.
Play your scales at different dynamic levels–each hand playing the same dynamic level, or each hand playing different dynamics.
Play your scales in different rhythms. Be creative.
Play scales with different touches; i.e., staccato or legato. When playing legato, be sure each key connects to the next so your playing will sound smooth. Do not punch the keys.
As you practice, use the metronome to gradually increase the tempo of your scale playing. Increasing the tempo one increment at a time is more successful than trying to play allegro all at once.
For the advanced student, be sure your arms are moving your hands, not the other way around. Float over the keys.
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