How to Develop a Legato Touch on the Piano

The legato touch at the piano

Legato means to play smoothly on the piano. Having a legato touch on the piano brings a professional sound to your playing. Legato is created by holding your hand in the correct position and pressing and releasing the keys with your fingers to create a smooth, even, expressive sound.

Things You'll Need

• Piano or keyboard

Instructions

1. 

   Curved fingers

   Place all five fingers of either your right hand on the piano keys. Keep the top of your hand vertical and do not allow your palm to drop or hit the keyboard. Fingers should be curved.

2. Press the key down with your thumb and begin to release it as you press the next key with your index finger. Continue until you reach your pinkie. Pressing and releasing the keys at the same time will give you the smooth blending sound.

3. Starting with your pinkie, press the key and then release it as you press the next key with your fourth finger. Continue doing each key until you get to your thumb and then go back up again as you did in the previous step.

4. As you press each key, increase your speed and then slow your speed. This will help to strengthen your fingers that will give you the control you need to develop the legato touch.

Tips & Warnings

• You may find your forth and fifth finger are hard to press down without picking up your thumb or index finger at the same time. Strength will grow in your fingers and you will be able to do it without picking up your fingers.

References

• Musical Phrasing

Resources

• Fundamentals of Piano Practice