Piano technique can be problematic for many students. Questions surrounding this aspect of piano playing are more frequent than any other in my experience, and this is certainly true in my Adult Piano Returner Facebook group: if you have a Facebook account but have yet to discover this group which now has 31,000 members, click here to join the fun.

There are many different ways to learn to play the piano, and, like most teachers, I don’t claim to have all the answers. However, I have worked with younger pupils particularly, developing their technique, as well as a whole spectrum of older students with injury issues including wrist ganglions, repetitive strain injury, and tendonitis – almost all of whom I have been able to help.

Whilst it’s preferable to work with students ‘in person’ and on a one-to-one basis where technique is concerned, it is possible to do it online and over the past few years I’ve helped several adult pupils doing just that. However online videos and webinars can introduce pianists to new practice ideas, helpful tips and practice suggestions, as well as exercises. With this in mind, my forthcoming webinar to be held in collaboration with Hal Leonard US and Schott Music will focus purely on developing flexible movement around the keyboard, with a focus on firming up fingers at the same time as keeping the upper body – shoulders, arms, wrists and hands – relaxed, loose, and flexible.

During the 60 minute webinar, we will complete a number of beneficial exercises, the scores of which will be sent to webinar participants before the event begins. To get the most from the session, audience participation is required and I hope you will join me at the piano as I demonstrate and guide you through the movements, which, if practised and implemented regularly, will become a habit and, in many cases, will eventually rid you of uncomfortable tension issues.

We will start with slow, deliberate, very simple exercises, paying special attention to our movements and how our body feels as we play them, progressing to more complex technical tasks such as tackling ornaments, double notes, and octaves. The session will benefit all levels with the exception of complete beginners (although they are very welcome to join us!). There will be a brief Q&A at the end as well as a quick ‘tour’ through my Play it again: PIANO series.

This event, which is free to attend, will take place at 12.00 noon, US time (6.00pm UK time) on Tuesday September 17th. To find out more and book your place, click on the link below. If you’re unable to attend, you can still register and enjoy the recording at a later date.

I look forward to ‘meeting’ you!