The other 50%

As pianists we are constantly concerned with how we depress the keys.  We think about key speed, finger position in relationship to the keys, playing from the key vs. above the key, etc.  All of these things are incredibly important aspects of creating a desired sound. Whether it is supposed to be harsh, soft, percussive, sung or whispered - how the key descends and therefore how the hammer strikes the strings is of utmost importance.

That however is not the whole story.  In fact, it barely covers half of the story.  The neglected side of research and thought in piano technique is the half of our playing which doesn't involve direct sound production at all.  While we are depressing the keys 50% of the time, we are releasing the keys the other 50% of the time.  It is my firm belief that we need to spend at least as much time with that half of our playing.  Therefore this is the first in a series of blog entries dealing with this subject.  I will explore topics such as

• Piano playing, the Olympics of the small muscles
  
• Preparation-Attack-Follow through
• Weight transfer
• Tension and relaxation
• Rotation
• Practicing these concept
  

If we consider this part of our playing more carefully, I am sure that we will have a more efficient, well-rounded, and healthy approach to piano technique.
So, stay tuned!