Music Expression On Piano

A great piano performance requires more than just knowing what notes to play and keeping the rhythm of the song. There has to be music Expression on the piano. The performer has to “feel” the music and the rhythm. And that feeling has to be expressed in his or her performance!

Music expression is not difficult or complicated. There is a simple way to get into your music so that it has “Expression” and feeling. Here is an uncomplicated breakdown.

1.       First, get to know your piece. Practice the song until you “know it in your sleep.” Make sure you know what notes are coming next: Anticipate the notes, the rhythm changes, the andantes and the crescendos, the pianissimos and the allegros, (when the music is supposed to be played slowly, louder, softer or quick & lively).

2.       Next, get to like your piece. If there is some background or history to the song, learn it and learn to appreciate it! Then you will know how you “should” feel when playing it. 

3.       Once you know the song well, and know how to play it well, and you know the history or meaning of the song, you can take your time and put your own personal touch to it. You will be able to add expression to the song through your fingers.

I realize this all sounds a little weird, but it’s something you have to experience in order to understand. So, try it. Take a simple song and experiment with the rhythm and the feel of the song. 

As a teacher of children, I encourage my young students to start with simple tunes like “Mary Had A Little Lamb,” or “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.” I tell my students to play it slowly. Now speed it up. Now slow it down again, until they get used to playing the song with different expressions. The slower version expresses a feeling of sadness about the song. The faster version expresses a happy feeling. 

Once you understand how to use your creativity to add music expression on piano, you will start to really enjoy playing piano and you will be eager to share your talent with others. When other people see how creative and expressive you are in your music, they will be eager to hear what you have to offer!

Look for the link, “Learn to Play Piano the Easy Way.” And please, don’t forget to leave your comments.

YOU can learn how to play piano using our FREE LESSONS, step by step instructions, tutorials, jam tracks and famous songs! http://tiny.cc/easypianolessons.