Piano Posture
Helpful tips to keep you from breaking the rules
by Cherie Yurco
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After a few months of determined learning and practice, Sam was ready to give up playing piano because, lately, she had been getting a pain in between her shoulder blades that lasted hours after she finished practicing. She decided to visit private piano instructor Jim Vatter for advice. Here are some tips he gave her.
Whether you use a bench, chair, or stool when you sit in front of a piano or keyboard, it is critical that you sit at the right height. Finding a seat that is height adjustable is best, and padding will definitely make the experience more comfortable.
If you use a chair for a keyboard, don't make the mistake of slumping to its back. Specially designed chairs and benches slant slightly downward, encouraging proper straight back position.
Your thighs should be parallel to the floor or tilted slightly downward, and your feet should rest flat on the floor. Position yourself so that the edge of your chair or bench is about at the center of your thigh. Move your seat so that your knees are under the keyboard with your shoulders squarely facing it.
To test distance from the keyboard, place your arms straight in front of you and touch the backs of the keys. If you cannot reach the backs of the keys, you are too far away and would be forced to slump when you play.
Initially your feet should be flat on the floor and centered. Once you start using the pedals, you may find they are too high to comfortably rest your toes on the pedal, with your heel on the floor. If so, try placing a thin book or carpet under your heel.
Your elbows should be close to your side and your hands and forearms should be parallel to the ground, or at a very slight slant downward, toward the keys. Your wrists should remain straight and fingers curved when you play. Practice finger and hand position by holding a tennis ball in each hand with palms facing downward. Now, imagine the tennis balls are still there when you play. Also, keep your fingernails short, so you can press the keys with the pads of your fingers.
While trying to achieve proper posture, don't make the mistake of tensing up. This will destroy all your attempts at getting the ergonomics right. Being comfortable and pain free is the goal.
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