Lesson Plan: How to Play Staccato on the Piano

Want to improve your piano playing and add a new technique to your skillset? Learning how to play staccato on the piano is a great way to do just that. In this post, we'll go over the key techniques you need to know to play staccato notes with control and precision.

First and foremost, playing staccato on the piano requires the use of the wrist. The movement for playing these disconnected notes should come from the wrist, rather than the arm, to give you more control over the duration of each note.

To ensure you're getting the shortest duration possible for each staccato note, it's essential to keep your fingers close to the keys. This allows for a quicker release, creating a crisp, clear sound.

When playing staccato notes, be sure to use the tip of your finger to press down on the key, rather than the pad. This, in conjunction with keeping your fingers close to the keys, will give you the best chance of a shorter note duration.

To further improve your accuracy and control, practice playing staccato notes with a metronome. Start at a slower tempo and gradually increase the speed as you become more comfortable with the technique.

In sheet music, staccato notes are notated by a small dot above or below the note, indicating that it should be played in a detached manner. When practicing a piece that contains staccato notes, be sure to pay close attention to these notations to ensure you're playing them correctly.

Regular practice, combined with paying attention to the aforementioned techniques and notations, will have you playing staccato on the piano like a pro in no time. And remember, staccato playing is not just about playing fast, but also achieving a clear, disconnected sound. So, make sure to focus on both speed and quality while you practice.

In conclusion, playing staccato on the piano is a valuable skill for any pianist to have in their toolbox. Incorporate these techniques into your practice and watch your staccato playing improve. Start simple and progress to more complex pieces, and remember to practice with patience and dedication. If you are looking for online piano lessons to help you improve your staccato technique or overall piano playing, be sure to check out our website for more information.