Scales

Scales are important to playing the piano - particularly since the instrument is laid out like a zebra crossing :)

They help you find your way around the 'geography' of the piano.

Here's a few things to bear in mind for scales:

• start slow and steady
• practise each hand apart
• play smoothly with equal volume on each key
• gradually build up confidence and speed
• play hands together once you're able
• play without looking when you can

Fingering for common scales shown below:

• Sharp keys (C/G/D/A/E)
  • Right hand: 1.2.3.1.2.3.4.5
  • Left hand: 5.4.3.2.1.3.2.1
• B
  • Right hand: as above
  • Left hand: 4.3.2.1.4.3.2.1
• Flat keys (F/Bb/Eb/Ab/Db)
  • Thumbs on F + C