The Pillars of Piano Technique

General Principles for a Healthy Technique (Lesson 1/12)

Penelope Roskell

Principle 1 Coordinate the whole body. Use the larger muscles for
strength, and the fingers to depress the keys.

Principle 2 Avoid extreme positions - e.g. very high or low wrist. The
mid-point of movement is the most ergonomically efficient.

Principle 3 Keep wrist and elbow supple at all times.

Principle 4 Use minimum effort for maximum result. Use gravity, not
pressure, and release any unnecessary tension.

Principle 5 Progress from broader to finer movements. Aim initially for

freedom of movement, then refine the movement to just
enough and no more.

Principle 6 Commit to these ten healthy practice habits:

1. Warm up the whole body, not just the 6. Keep practice varied

fingers
7. Alternate playing right and left hand alone

2. Give each hand a rest every 20 minutes

8. Alternate between fast and slow pieces

3. Take breaks to study the score

9. For passages marked 'forte,' avoid
4. Memorize away from the keyboard practicing at full volume during early
where possible
learning stages

5. Prepare each practice session in 10. Plan ahead to avoid a sudden increase in
advance
practice time before a performance
Approaching Roskell’s lessons

• These are exercises in movement and sound with a musical purpose

• Take your time, think about the movement, and listen

• Avoid mechanical playing, focus instead on the musical effect

• Practice at a tempo that is comfortable for you

• Integrate each motion into your repertoire before moving on to the next lessons

Penelope Roskell
Roskell is a pianist and Professor of Piano at Trinity Laban
Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London. Her book titled
“The Complete Pianist: from healthy technique to natural
artistry” is published by Edition Peters. The Complete Pianist
covers all aspects of piano technique including posture, finger
touch and tone production, chords, octaves, rotation, and lateral
movements, as well as advice on artistry, mental preparation,
and performance.

Click here to purchase on Roskell’s website

Roskell works in a clinic where she advises pianists who are

experiencing pain and playing-related injuries. These exercises
will help you prevent injuries in the future and also help to
resolve any existing problems of tension or injury.