How to Learn Piano Notes and Proper Finger Placement, with Sharps and Flats

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Playing piano can be a hard skill to master, but with a few easy tips learning can be easier than ever!

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Learn By Ear

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    • This is important for learning by ear, so that way you can play what you learn on other pianos without confusion.
    • If you don't have access to a tuned piano, then you can still do this step, although it will be harder transfer your skills onto another piano.
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    • Use an app or the internet to find out what middle C sounds like, than match it on your piano.
    • This is important for basic piano fingering.
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    • It might be hard at first, but as you strengthen your fingers you will find it gets easier.
    • Your fingers will begin to memorize the placement in this position.
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    • Get used to moving your hand- it's important to learning all of the notes!
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    • Place your Left thumb on the G below middle C (3 white notes below middle C).
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    Then repeat steps 4 and 5.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Learn by Sight

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    • This option is good if you're not sure your piano is in tune.
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    • Pointer finger goes on D.
    • Middle Finger Goes on E.
    • Ring Finger goes on F.
    • Pinky Goes on G.
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    • Practice skipping notes and spelling words.
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    • The index finger plays the note between C and D.
    • The middle finger plays the note between D and E.
    • The ring finger plays the note between F and G.
    • The pinky finger plays the note between G and A.
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  • Question
    How do you quickly learn to play the piano?
    Amy Nicole Levine
    Pianist, Music Teacher, and Songwriter
    Amy Nicole Levine is a Pianist, Music Teacher, and Songwriter, based in Oakland, CA. She performs in a wide variety of genres ranging from Jazz, Classical, Funk, R&B, Gospel, Rock, Reggae, Latin, Chorale, and others. Amy teaches private piano lessons to both adults and children at her studio in Oakland. Amy plays with multiple music groups throughout the Bay Area. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from San Francisco State University.
    Amy Nicole Levine
    Pianist, Music Teacher, and Songwriter
    Expert Answer
    You have to practice a lot. The more you practice, the faster you'll get better. You're better off practicing every day for a short amount of time than spending hours one day and then nothing for days. You need the continuity of doing it every day. Do at least 20 minutes every day.
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