Scales

Chapter 22 - Barmy bunnies and the idea of snapping scale

Free the arm and the fingers for maximum velocity

Chapter 21 - Arpeggios and stretching spider

We are talking about extending the thumb without collapsing the hand arch structure

Chapter 20 - Snapping Scale

Activates the thumb, drawing it towards the fingers but in a moving way whether rather than a static, overly structured way

Integration and comparison to other methods

Discussion of how this approach differs from overly analytical methods. Comparison to Taubman technique rotations and emphasis on natural, sensation-based learning over purely intellectual approaches. Preparation for transitioning to Bach repertoire work

Advanced thumb technique and scale mechanics

Focused work on thumb crossover technique, emphasizing coming down before going up to eliminate falling sensation. Detailed practice of the push-off motion and coordination between thumb and other fingers. Integration of all movements for smooth scale playing with proper arm response

Scale work philosophy and E major scale demonstration

Introduction to E major scale as one of the easiest scales due to its five black keys.

Introduction and technique discussion

Alan explains the difference between flat fingers vs. slightly curved fingers for therapeutic isolation of lumbrical muscles, and discusses the choice between one-bone vs. three-bone finger approach

Does the thumb go under?

One queistion about scales that everybody asks

Left hand scales

The healthy hand needs to lead the injured one

We have work to do on the healthy hand too

Left hand scales

Keep the feeling of structural security

We are retraining the unjured hand and trying to activate certain muscles

Piano Somatics and scale playing

Alan asks whether the hand really passes over the thumb in scales... or not?

Piano Somatics examines the role of the thumb in playing scales

Alan shows how the thumb needs to be more fully utilized if a scale is going to shine and run quickly.

Rotation in scales and arpeggios

It's not only the hands are involved in rotation process but the whole body

Do you flop your hand while you plays scales or put the thumb under?

It looks that way but is it?

Descending scales

The opposition of the thumb should integrate into the actions of the hand

How to get a smooth scale?

Scales to the inside

No thumb under, no finger over

Don't swivel, stand up

Left hand descending arpeggios

Don't reach for the note, know it's there

You don't have to put the thumb under

but over actually and it also helps you STAND UP

Activate the standing muscles in your hand

and use them to play not only scales, but everything really

Whip the arm up to play a fast scale

Pianimals teachers exercise 22

A snapping scale

Pianimals teachers exercise 20

Ballade in F major - left hand scales

Nothing is a problem when your hand stands up

Thumb flexion is not good for your hand

Thumb can move in three different ways but we don't want to flex it really

Smooth, rock solid scales

What to do if your scales sound broken up? Structure up!

Scales Exercises - Thumb

Scale Essentials

A short segment on scales and the whole hand drop issue

Scales and Arpeggios - The Major Pillar in Your Piano Technique

The one and only way to approach scales and arpeggios

The Thumb is Only Doing its Job

If you are not swiveling your hand

Horizontal Scales

Inspired from Louise Robyn, Chicago pianist and teacher

How to Practice Scales Slowly

By activating hand's hip joint all the way

The Thumb Goes Under or Maybe Not

The oldest questions in the piano book

If you See the Hand Swiveling Horizontally

Then the thumb and fingers aren't functional

Teach The Reflexes to Stand Up in Fast Tempo

The functional hand can not collapse in fast tempo

Standing in Scales and Why is it Important

Alan is working with a young pianist and explaining the importance of standing

The Hand Stays in Balance

The true point of unstable equilbrium and the mental image we need to cultivate

Healthy and Exuberant Thumb

The thumb should not be dysfunctional

The Power that Animates a Scale

The thumb needs to do this amazing carrying job

Pivoting vs Wobbling in Arpeggios

pronation and supination w/ small hands

Arpeggios - The Thumb Needs to be Springy

When you swivel you, rob the thumb of it's power

Slide for the Better Elasticity

The sliding is designed to get rid of the remaining crampedness

The Real Prerequisite for Playing Good Scales and Arpeggios

is the functional hand!

Left Hand Arpeggios

Open the hand and get "springy"

Play The Scales Like Chico Marx

The springiness of the thumb is what gets us through

Stepping Stones - Going Down

The springy thumb is powering the whole motion

Keeping the Angle the Same

The structure needs to be elastified

Scales - Going Down

The thumb carries the hand. Springiness!

Make the Length of the Fingers the Same

Changing the angle of the hand does not help muscles and they stop working.

Putting the Thumb Under in Scales

Alan is busting the myth: opposition, not flexion

Scales are the Grammar of Music

Alan and a young pianist working on b flat minor scale

Left Hand Scales

Alan is showing Jean a few exercises for the left hand scales.

Functional Wrist and Thumb for Better Scales

Stable wrist, rotation and functional thumb are prerequisites for healthy scales

MCP and Scales

Do you tuck the finger under, rotate or you do something completely different?

The Movement that Solves the Scales Problem

Intro lesson to the Scales and Injury series

How to Play Fast Scales

Hot seat workshop in Vussem, Germany 2016

Contracted Triceps and Scales

Asked by: Johannes

The Thumb Opposition And Rotation in Scales

An ongoing conversation on the rotation and thumb opposition

Standing Hand in Scales

Alan is explaining how to 'stand up' the hand while playing scales

Thumb Exercises

We are finishing up this series with various exercises designed to separate sensory infomration and musculary effort

Smooth Scales

Alan helps a student iron out his scales

The Thumb in Scales

Alan is talking about the thumb, scales..

Elastic Placement for Better Scales

Overholding, springy wrist and elasticity

Rotation in Scales and Leaps

Alan talks about scales and leaps and gives examples from the literature

Rotation and Counter Rotation for a Healthy Hand

Alan talks about remedial effects rotation has on piano technique as well as rotation in scales

Rotation in Scales and Arpeggios

Asked by: Plaine

How to Play Fast Scales?

Asked by: Christine

A Lesson on Scales

A very informative lessons on scales with Alan

How to Play and Practice Scales Part 1

Alan is talking about best practices when playing scales. Color, touch, palm