Wrist Rotation / Forearm Rotation

In my piano course Adult Piano Beginners I demonstrate many different examples of where and how to use wrist/forearm rotation in piano playing.

This is one small exercise that can help you to get the feel for it and so please check out my other videos that will also help you develop the technique.

Step 1

Rolling or pivoting on the little finger. This really helps you to get a feel for the movement in a free and loose way where you are not worrying about playing notes correctly. It is important to feel secure in the movement so that it is applied correctly and without tension.

Where can I use rotation?

Later on you will really feel the benefit of this technique as it can be applied to the following :-

• Alberti bass
• Rapid broken chord passages
• Melodic playing and shaping
• Tremolos and trills 

Injury Prevention

In more advanced repertoire, for example, in a Beethoven sonata such as the Pathetique, the technique of wrist/forearm rotation becomes essential tool. Without this technique, the tremolo pattern in the left hand becomes almost impossible to play at speed and there have been many documented injuries such as Tendonitis, Repetitive Strain Injury and Carpal Tunnel, suffered by pianists in passages of music like the one mentioned above.

Of course you are at the early stages in your development as a pianist and so you need to learn these skills in the right way and develop techniques over a gradual period of time so that you know when, where and how to apply them correctly. 

I teach from the music in the Hey Presto! Piano Method Book because it is written with these crucial techniques in mind. In the Adult Piano Beginners online course we will work together in developing your skills in the right way from the beginning and I will be with you every step of the way.

In my Facebook group Adult Piano Beginners (link below) you will find answers to many of your piano related questions including where to learn and advice on types of piano. Join me and I will help you to learn the piano whether you are a beginner or progressing beginner returning to the piano.

1. Adult Piano Beginners online course www.adultpianobeginners.com
2. Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/groups/1114361552240767
3. Subscribe on YouTube   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZOdyrYMRrcUz6zH8tiLiDQ