Become A Wiz On Piano Topics That You Have Questions About
Sample Piano
Wiz Session
Question:
Response:
Question:
Response:
| Hello Sharon, Thank you for your question, which is a good one because your asking it puts you on a positive path toward the exploration of piano chord voicings! Naturally, in the area of piano styling, we have many options that a pianist can use to create variations and interest in his or her playing. I would like you to focus on one at this point because, once you make this a part of your "piano playing toolbox," you've really opened the door for a lot of possibilities in your future playing... Consider using what is commonly referred to as a "1-7 shell" with your left hand. The chord A-7, in root position as you have been playing, it consists of: A C E G 1 3 5 7 With the left hand, the 1 and 7 can be played on their own, without the 3 and 5. Notice that your first melody note in measure #1 is a C, which is the 3rd of the chord. Therefore, it is not necessary to play that 3 again. So far, with that shell being played with your left hand and that melody being played with your right hand, you have most of the chord under your fingertips. As that melody note C is played with your right pinkie finger (5th finger), play the E just above middle C with your right thumb. Now you are playing the full chord: The formula (right hand over left hand): 3 5 _ 7 1 Simply continue the melody from this point as you approach the D-7. The D-7 in root position as you have been playing it: D F A C 1 3 5 7 Sharon, the first melody note of measure #2 is F, which is the 3rd of the chord. As you play this F with either your middle finger (3rd finger) or ring finger (4th finger), play middle C with your right thumb. So far, you are playing the 3 and 7 of the chord. Simply play the 1 and 5 (the D and A) with your left hand, leaving you playing the entire chord. The formula: 3 7 _ 5 1 The transition is easy to execute here, Sharon, because after playing the shell for A-7, your middle finger (3rd finger) can play the D of the D-7 chord while the A is played with the thumb (1 finger).  Sharon, these are two very tasteful chord voicings that you can put to use throughout the rest of the song. By applying them to this song while this is fresh on your mind, you will reinforce your understanding and be developing confidence with them (in addition, the results that you'll be coming up with will sound good!) Consider using these two formulas for any of the 7th chords in the song. The discoveries that await you will provide you with lots of insight! Remember, Always... ALWAYS... PLAY WITH PASSION! Musically, Dave www.PianoAmore.net |
| Hi Sharon, Yes you can! With all the 7th chords, experiment with these two numerical formulas and watch and listen to the different results you achieve as you apply both formulas to each chord. This is terrific practice... and fun, too! Remember, Always... ALWAYS... PLAY WITH PASSION! Musically, Dave www.PianoAmore.net |
End of session.
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