Online Piano Lesson #1 - How to Sit at the Piano

While most people want to dig right in and start playing the piano, there are a few details that need to be discussed. We must be kind to our bodies and learn proper posture so that we do not injure ourselves over time. Keep in mind the following tips when sitting at the piano.

  1. First and foremost, do not slouch! Always keep your back straight and sit tall.
  2. Sit with your upper body leaning slightly forward.
  3. Make sure to always keep your arms and wrists loose and natural.
  4. Keep your elbows up so that they are slightly higher than the keys.
  5. Make sure the bench in parallel to the keyboard and not at an angle.
  6. The bench should be close enough so that the knees are slightly under the keyboard.
  7. Keep feet flat on the floor.

Initially, this position is going to feel a bit awkward, but with time and practice it will be more natural. Although your first inclination is to ignore these tips and move along - it is extremely important to treat our body, hands and wrists with special care.

Music Instructional DVDs

If you’ve decided to teach yourself to play an instrument and music instruction books aren’t your thing - you may want to check out music instruction DVDs instead. If you are an auditory learner, these will be much more effective for you. Here are some suggestions sorted by instrument type.

Piano Instructional DVDs

Guitar Instructional DVDs

Drum Instructional DVDs

Music Instruction Books

If you’ve decided that you want to teach yourself to play an instrument and you’re ready to start looking for an instructional book, here is a great list, sorted by instrument, to get you started.

Piano Instructional Books

Guitar Instructional Books

Drum Instructional Books

And if books aren’t your thing, maybe you should try an instructional DVD.