How do I use Arm weight and release stress??

[stelle]

Hi All!

I'm learning piano 'officially' after improvising by myself for a while and i've found that I'm not able to play Forte without bashing the piano keys or to play DEEP when im reading from a music score! This is even after ive memorized the whole piece.

The thing is, i don't seem to have this problem when i am improvising but once i step outside of my comfort zone i cant seem to relax.

Ive read a lot about using your ARM WEIGHT and the need to RELAX but I'm still unsure as to how to go about this! HOw do i use arm weight or transfer my weight to my fingers to achieve a strong, deep sound without bashing?

If anyone could help or offer some advice it would be really great!!

Thanks!!!

Estelle.

[keyboardclass]

The key is understanding that from a hand hanging limp, fingers just touching the keys, you stiffen JUST FOR THE MILLISECOND of key depression - relaxing (flop) immediately afterwards.  Raise your wrist and you're ready to start again. 

[stelle]

Thanks keyboard class, I will practice that!

How would i do this wrist movement for a cluster of fast notes?

Is it a matter of importance, the location of WHERE i press down on the piano keys?
Eg: closer to the end or closer to the black keys or in the centre?

[keyboardclass]

I would use it sparingly in pre-Chopin music - he discovered the technique, though many pianists use it for all periods.  In a fast passage you 'drop' on the accents using only finger work for the others.  Obviously the faster you play the smaller the wrist/arm motions.  Where you play on the keys doesn't matter just be sure not to flop (break you wrist) before you've flopped - the most common mistake.  Good luck!