Noob question about scale technique

[slurred_beat]

Hi all,

I wrote a question here a year ago about scale technique. But I still don't understand scale technique I have worked on my piano playing for a year. There is just something about the scales that are weird for me. So I want to ask a noob question. I can't figure out how to pass the thumb under still, or if I should "jump" without moving the thumb. I try both but none of them sound even and I can't do it fast. I read what people say that you shouldn't pass the thumb because it makes your hand tense. I also notice that. But when I try to just move my hand without passing the thumb I can't do it fast enough no matter how hard I try. The scale becomes uneven and clumsy. This is such a mystery? how do I solve this thanks

[jimf12]

My first question is whether or not you have a teacher?   Actually watching you with an expert eye would go a long way.

My only advice is to practice slow.    Start with whatever tempo allows you to play the scale evenly, and slowly build up.   Concentrate on technique, lifting the fingers and to go deeply into the key.   Mix the tempo up on your scales - for example play dotted quarter/eighth note rhythm,  and four fast/four slow etc..     Make sure your hand is relaxed, one sign for me that I am tensing up is my pinky wants to fly out.   Make sure when you play the scale this isn't happening.    If it is, slow down again.   

Don't be afraid to go slow, for as long as it takes. 

Without seeing what is going on it's tough to really say what to work on, but passing the thumb under smoothly is a skill that needs to be mastered.    It needs to be learned.   You can "jump" - playing thumb over, but imo you should master thumb under.   

[brogers70]

Hi all,

I wrote a question here a year ago about scale technique. But I still don't understand scale technique I have worked on my piano playing for a year. There is just something about the scales that are weird for me. So I want to ask a noob question. I can't figure out how to pass the thumb under still, or if I should "jump" without moving the thumb. I try both but none of them sound even and I can't do it fast. I read what people say that you shouldn't pass the thumb because it makes your hand tense. I also notice that. But when I try to just move my hand without passing the thumb I can't do it fast enough no matter how hard I try. The scale becomes uneven and clumsy. This is such a mystery? how do I solve this thanks

It's easier to watch than to explain in text. I find this guy's videos very helpful. Have a look and see if it's useful to you.

&t=66s

[anacrusis]

One important point is that it's important to keep the fingers that are not in use completely relaxed or scales get way harder. If you practice slowly but still maintain tense hands, slow practice is not gonna help.