Hand position is such a crucial component of playing the piano and it is often sorely overlooked. Not only can this lead to inefficiencies that make it hard to play fast lines, but it can also lead to injury. In this video I am going to show you two simple exercises for perfect hand position. These exercises, when practiced perfectly will strengthen your hand and make your hand position improve.
Sitting correctly to establish perfect hand position
In order to get your hand position in order, you first need to be seated correctly. Most people end up sitting too close to the piano, which makes it very difficult to get your hands into the correct position. It is important to pull the bench back, bring your body forward on the bench and make sure to keep your body upright. Make sure your forearm should be parallel with the floor. Check out this video to learn more about your posture.
What does a perfect hand position look like?
The shape of the hand should be curved, as though you have a small ball underneath your hand. Your perfect hand position should be with your thumb lying down flat along the keys, with your fingers curved. Your thumb and pointer finger should be describing a circle.
Lack of hand strength leads to poor hand position
In order to be able to maintain that perfect hand position, you need to have strength in your hand. The following two exercises are very helpful to build the hand strength you need. For each exercise, you want to move slowly and carefully. Make sure that your hand is in the correct position and play with as little tension as possible. Practice the hands separately and gently move the tempo faster as you get more comfortable. Ideally, you would practice each exercise for a few minute each day.
Finger Exercise #1
Right Hand
Left Hand
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Finger Exercise #2
Right Hand
Left Hand
Finger Exercise #2 in A Minor
Right Hand
Left Hand
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