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wikiHow to Use Correct Posture and Body Position for Piano Playing

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Having a correct posture is quite important when it comes to playing piano, as it can greatly affect your ability to play correctly. Maintaining incorrect posture and body position can also cause some pretty painful body aches.


  1. 1
    Keep your back straight. If your back is slouched, you'll get pain very quickly, and your neck can also ache.
  2. 2
    Put your feet in position to press the pedals if needed. Having to swerve your feet and stop playing to look can be annoying and delays the Music. Make sure you have them in place to press at any moment.
  3. 3
    Keep your fingers curved. We all have the temptation to play Music flat fingered but it affects the way we play, because curved fingers have more control over the notes. This will also make it easier to play fast pieces. Make sure the joints closest to your fingertips stay bent.
  4. 4
    Make sure you can lean to reach higher and lower keys. This helps to play more smoothly and without gaps.
  5. 5
    Sit on the very edge of the seat and do not lean on your back.
  6. 6
    Lean slightly forward towards the piano.

Community Q&A

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  • How do I keep my fingers curved? My pinkie can't curve.
    Imagine that you have an orange inside your hand. Practice that shape, and you will be star.
  • Are your wrists supposed to be bent up or straight?
    wikiHow Contributor
    Your arm should be in a natural position, meaning the wrist should be relaxed but firm, and not up nor down, going in the same straight line of the forearm. The finger of the palm itself should form a half sphere, like you are holding an invisible ball - but you should have control over your palm and forearm, while they are relaxed at the same time.
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  • Learn to play without looking at your hands, this will stop you getting distracted and hesitating.
  • If you are not using the pedals, keep your feet flat on the floor. For younger players whose legs can't reach the floor, use a box as a foot rest.

Article Info

Categories: Piano and Keyboard

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