Hello everyone, and welcome! In my recent live online session to Adult Piano Beginners members we reviewed and explored one of the most fundamental aspects of piano playing—scales! For many beginners, learning to play scales is not just about finger speed, but also about building good habits that lead to fluidity, comfort, and eventually, mastery of the keyboard. In this blog, I'll be breaking down some essential tips on thumb technique and more to make playing scales easier and more enjoyable.

Thumb Technique: The Secret to Smooth Playing

When you play a scale, the thumb plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth transitions between notes. In the example we're using today, starting on the note D, I want you to pay special attention to how the thumb moves as we progress through the scale.

As you ascend, you'll notice that the thumb doesn't stay stiff or stretched out. Instead, it naturally bends and relaxes as you move across the keyboard. This is a key habit to develop early on: don’t force your thumb into unnatural positions. A slightly bent thumb in its natural position is much more relaxed and helps you avoid tension in your hand, which is especially important for those of you coming back to piano after a break or just starting as an adult beginner.

Thumb's Journey: Relaxation Over Tension

As we move up the scale, your thumb will go "under" your other fingers to prepare for the next set of notes. Here’s where you want to focus on thumb flexibility rather than tension. Try not to “reach” for the note with your thumb; instead, let it naturally glide under your hand. See the video for a greater depth of understanding.

For example, once you’ve played a note with your third finger, the thumb is already positioning itself behind the next note it will play. There's no rush—it’s about preparing the thumb in advance, keeping it ready and not too tense.

Rotation: The Circular Motion at the Top

One of the most common challenges in scales is transitioning smoothly when you reach the end of a one-octave scale. Instead of trying to pivot with your fingers alone, you can use a slight circular motion with your wrist. This will make it easier to turn around smoothly without adding strain.

This circular motion is particularly helpful at the top of the scale, where it can be tempting to stretch your fingers out unnaturally. Think of it as a gentle rotation rather than a forced stretch—this reduces tension and helps you return smoothly down the scale. Practicing this little circular motion will not only help your scales but also improve how you handle scale-like passages in pieces.

Rotation for Finishing Notes

When you're finishing a scale, especially at the end of a piece or phrase, you don’t need to play the last note with your finger alone. Incorporating slight rotation into your hand can give you more control and expressiveness. You can also experiment with slightly rotating onto the final note for a smoother, more elegant finish.

Practice Tips:

• Thumb exercises: Practice moving your thumb under your fingers without playing notes first. This will help you get used to the movement without the added pressure of playing in time.
• Position: As you practice scales, focus on hand and wrist position. Are your fingers too stiff, flat or not aligned correctly on the keys?  These are signs you might need to let the more natural movements guide you.
• Circular motion: Practice small circular wrist movements at the top of the scale to reduce tension and help with eveness of tone. This is especially helpful in pieces where scales are used.

Wrapping Up

Incorporating these small adjustments into your practice will help you play more fluidly and with less tension. Remember, scales are more than just a technical exercise; they build the foundation for ease of movement and control across the keyboard, which will translate into everything you play. If you’re looking for more detailed guidance, be sure to check out my Adult Piano Beginners Course, where we go even deeper into technique, using methods from the acclaimed Hey Presto Piano Method book.

As always, happy practicing, and remember to enjoy the journey!

Join my Adult Piano Beginners Course here for more insights and live sessions: https://www.adultpianobeginners.com

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