How to Sit at a Piano

Step 1: Sit in middle of bench Sit in the middle of the bench, so you can easily lean in either direction to play high and low notes.
Step 2: Put arms straight out Put your arms straight out in front of you, closing your hands into loose fists. Your elbows should be turned inward toward your torso.
Step 3: Put loose fists on keys Put your loose fists on the keys, allowing your elbows to hang close to your body, but keeping your hands level with your forearm.
TIP: Elbows should be roughly four inches closer to the keyboard than your shoulders.
Step 4: Keep hands & fingers rounded Keep hands and fingers rounded, with only your fingertips on the keys. Keys should be pressed with the weight of the hand alone.
Step 5: Place feet flat on floor Place your feet flat on the floor and keep them flat, unless you’re pressing a pedal.
TIP: Don’t forget to sit up straight!
Step 6: Position chin & relax shoulders Keep your chin parallel to the ground and your shoulders relaxed.
Step 7: Start practicing Channel your favorite pianist—or maybe just get out the sheet music and start practicing.
FACT: A complete set of piano strings is subject to 20,000 to 40,000 pounds of tension.

Lessons in this Guide