beginner level need advice

[mrpiano1]

I'm 58 years old & one of my "bucket list" desires was to play the piano. I started lessons about 10 months ago and I enjoy my time learning although my progress is slower than I expected. One area that is frustrating (I could list several) is that my in-active fingers stay in the air instead of resting on the keys. Is this a normal occurance at beginner level? I use the Harmon exercise book at least 30 minutes a day in addition to my regular lesson book.

[ongaku_oniko]

What do you mean by "in-active"? As in the fingers that aren't used to play?

I don't think there's anything wrong with it "hanging in the air", the only concern is that it might bring tension later on. But in reality, you can't have the fingers completely sticking on the keys, since you need to strike the key, and just pushing it down while you're resting on it will make the sound all mushy.

So I wouldn't be too worried. Good luck!

[sharmayelverton]

I don't think having a the fingers a little raised in them self is a problem. However try and focus on keeping your hands relaxed. In my experience adult beginners commonly hold more tension in their hands. Unlike young children they do have the advantage of having the strength in their fingers. Just need to keep the hands relaxed and the wrist loose enough so that you can use it efficiently.

Congratulations for taking up the piano. It's a wonderful thing to do.

[quantum]

I think it would depend on the extent of the raised fingers.  One does need to raise fingers to prepare to play future notes.  Then again, you don't want to raise your fingers too high, as this will be excessive unnecessary movement.  Concentrate on maintaining a good hand position - your teacher will show you what this looks and feels like. 

FYI - Crawling or sliding along the surface of the keys is a particular technique you will learn in more advanced stages to achieve a specific sound.  There are many different techniques to playing you will encounter in your musical journey, but for now work on establishing a solid playing apparatus.