Piano Playing Exercise

One of my students frequently arrives at her piano lessons clad in attire suited for the gymnastics training event she attends afterwards. This has sparked a delightful contemplation about the rigorous training required to ascend to the lofty heights of musical greatness. While a modicum of talent is undoubtedly essential for those aspiring to be virtuosos, it is often underestimated just how much discipline and relentless practice are necessary to master the most challenging piano compositions.

Many students find themselves grappling not only with the nuances of reading music and conveying its emotional depths but also with the fundamental strength and agility of their fingers and hands. It’s a veritable ballet of digits, if you will!

Building Musical Strength

Enter the marvellous series known as "Dozen A Day," a treasure trove of technical exercises designed to fortify strength and dexterity. I fondly recall the charming stick figure illustrations accompanying each exercise during my own formative years—such whimsical visuals!

These books (and many similar offerings from the wonderful variety of tutor series we have today) serve as an excellent launching pad for anyone with aspirations of becoming a top-tier musician.