Elementary Technique - Fundamentals of Scales & Arpeggios

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Introduction

Scales and arpeggios are part of the requirements of all examination boards, and every pianist will encounter them. The importance of knowing scales and arpeggios in every key cannot be exaggerated, but many players struggle with them because of poor technique. Knowing the theory of how major and minor scales are formed is also a very important part of the learning process, even though this does not have to be over-emphasised in the early grades – as long as this is caught up with later.

How do we learn to play any scale at the drop of a hat? How do we play an even scale at a suitable tempo, with the correct fingering? How do we manage the thumb movements in an arpeggio accurately without bumping? How do we sit, how do we move across the keyboard without tension?

The following module forms part of the Online Academy's technique library and is designed to address all these issues. With detailed instructions in the videos, along with printed exercises and their demonstrations, I hope this material will assist you on your journey to making friends with scales and arpeggios!

Resources & links Click here to view the previous module in the Online Academy's technique library exploring the basics of piano technique. Click here to view a guide to playing scales at the elementary level (ABRSM Grade 1). Click here to view a guide to playing scales at the intermediate level (ABRSM Grade 5). Practising the Piano Multimedia eBook Series - Part 2 (Mastering Piano Technique) - click here to download if you already own it or click here to purchase from our store. Practising the Piano Multimedia eBook Series - Part 3 (Scales and Arpeggios) - click here to download if you already own it or click here to purchase from our store.