How to Play Foot Pedals for the Keyboard

Pedals have been used on organs for centuries.

Some keyboards offer the user the ability to connect a set of external foot pedals to aid in playing professional organ parts. For centuries, organs have used foot pedals. These pedals were originally used to control separate pitch pipes that created lower tones. Foot Pedals are larger versions of piano keys, often featuring 8 white keys and 5 black keys. Organists play these pedals with their feet while playing music with both hands. Because of the immense skill level required to play well, professional organists are highly sought-after.

Things You'll Need

• Keyboard

Instructions

1. Set your keyboard on the "Organ" sound. Many electric keyboards have settings built-in to set foot pedals properly.

2. Put on socks. Many professional organists will either wear socks or special slippers. Dry socks will reduce friction, allowing you to move from pedal to pedal faster.

3. Open a hymn. Hymns have been sung in church services for centuries. Many of them are designed for use with a piano or organ. Often, you will see 4 notes played at a time to represent Baritone, Tenor, Alto and Soprano.

4. Look at the bottom note. The bottom note is the root of each chord.

5. Practice playing the bass notes with your foot pedals, before attempting a whole hymn.

6. Play the Left and Right hand of the hymn, omitting the lowest note. Play the bottom note on the foot pedals.

References

• B & H: Keyboard pedals