I encourage ALL students (not just beginners) to play through their songs Hands Alone before attempting to play the songs with both hands. You might see the following abbreviations written in their books or notebook: HA - Hands Alone, HT - Hands Together, RH - Right Hand, and LH - Left Hand.
In some cases, once a song has been learned Hands Together, there is no need to play Hands Alone any longer (especially in Levels 1 & 2). But, sometimes I may instruct students to play their songs Hands Alone and Hands Together every day!
I may give more specific instructions such as: HA for 2 days, then HT. The student should practice that song Hands Alone for 2 days and then Hands Together for the remainder of the week. Sometimes, one hand has a more difficult part. I might give instructions like: RH first, then HT. The student should practice the Right Hand first and then both hands.
Does your child finish practicing quickly? Ask them: Did you play your songs Hands Alone first? Is your child struggling with a song? Suggest: Why don't you try that song Hands Alone again.
Let me know if you have any questions.
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ReplyDeleteHands alone works great when we first get the piece but how can we encourage keeping the beat instead of playing it as fast as we can once we learn the notes?
Great tips! It is one more way to reinforce what is said verbally each week.
ReplyDeleteJeff and Amy, Do you have a metronome? I wonder if that would help. Perhaps if your daughter understands that there really is a "correct" tempo she won't be as likely to play everything fast! I'll try that with her in lessons. The other thing to remember is that though she is starting Level 4, she really is still a YOUNG piano player. For her, playing fast and loud is FUN! As she matures, she will learn to appreciate slower and quieter music.
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