I strongly encourage my piano students to focus on 3 necessary components when beginning to learn a new song (initially, hands separately):
- Learn the notes – note accuracy is essential! I highly recommend flash cards & note naming out loud for beginner students. The sooner a student is able to sight read the notes, the quicker he/she will be able to play the song.
- Rhythm – playing the notes in time is a must! I highly recommend counting out loud! The song will sound more polished when note accuracy and rhythmic accuracy are coordinated together!
- Fingering – playing with proper fingering helps students to effectively transition between notes or measures, thus contributing to polishing the song.
By learning these 3 essential components initially with hands separately, students will be able to put the song hands together more easily and accurately!
Happy Practicing!
Jenny Chan, piano teacher
