Maintaining structure in fast staccato?

Things will be more clear when dvd comes out, i am sure!

I think my thumb is muscular enough, especially my right hand thumb. In fact, the right thumb is a little bit bulky and although it's stronger than my left thumb, it's motions are not as smooth!! What do you mean by this? You mean playing the scales without passing the thumb under? I've never been able to see how the scales can be connected than. Some years ago, I read "On Piano Playing: Motion, Sound, and Expression " by Gyorgy Sandor who advocates that the thumb should not play under the thumb. I take that advice, and practice diligently on that for some months. But I obviously did it the wrong way, (moving the entire hand into position in such an inefficient way) that such practices eventually lead to my withdrawal from playing piano for a few years. At that time, I cannot play a smooth scale at any reasonable speed! My octave scales sound even better and smoother and faster than my single note scales (of the right hand). Well, I stopped playing at all, and not willing to following any "schools", until I found Alan's book which is much more thoughtful than most. There are too many superstitious (and yet common) ideas in the physical aspects of piano playing.... Back to the "play over the palm" discussion, I believe there must be a way to do this efficiently. But I will try only when I'm absolutely sure HOW. Can you clarify on that?

yes, 'out the back door' can indeed be used to great effect in actual performance. As for your thumb, just because it is big and muscular doesn't mean it is functional. Try the following from the book: 1) chapter 13 THumb Pushups 2) chapter 39 Maintaining Natural Shape in Scales 3) chapters 41, 42, 44 Finally, there really is some good material in the film on this. As of today, we have officially opened sales of the film, so please feel free to make your order!!! best wishes, AFF PS sorry I can't answer at greater length; I am going on tour tomorrow and it has been hectic lately to say the least!