I have some computer problems so am not able to make recordings, but am playing as much as I can. I am working on Debussy’s Dr Gradus from the Children’s Corner. I have not been satisfied with the video I posted of that piece. The challenge in Dr Gradus is to play the rapid notes evenly (no lumps) and with lots of dynamic shading…elements my recording is missing! The problems I have had with hand position are either a tense arm and wrist or flat, floppy fingers. My recording shows the floppy finger problem. I am working on keeping my hand position relaxed but firm, and moving the hand right over the keys with the arm. There is a really strong feeling when the coordination works, I feel totally in control, but am not scrambling to get the notes. The metronome has helped a lot by keeping the pulse. All the little notes fit in when the pulse is strong.

One of the most common mistakes piano players make is to reach for the keys with the fingers. Of course, the fingers are “playing” the notes because they are in direct contact with the keys, but the fingers must be supported by the arm and hand at all times. When practicing, ask yourself: Are you holding the arm and hand rigidly and striking the keys with the fingers? Watch this video of Daniel Baremboim, notice the hand position. The hands are always moved over the keys by the arms, the fingers are never reaching to hit the notes: