Using the thumb properly

[guitarwolf]

I am new to piano and would like to know if its ok to only use 3 fingers when going down in a scale passing over the thumb with 2 fingers, my pointer and middle. Or should I start with the ring and pinky then pass over the thumb? I dont wanna learn the wrong way and get used to doing it only to have to learn all over again. An example would be nocturne in C# minor. 15th measure when you go from C# down 2 1/2 or so octaves to A. I use only 3 fingers right now but am wondering for future pieces if I should get used to using all or is this the way its done. Thnx.

[BuyBuy]

There is really no rule : do what best fits your hand and the musical expression.

Now, in general, if you have scale passages, it's better to use all of your fingers, because one you will be able to gain greater speed, and two you will reduce the risk of uneveness and stumbling for so much thumb passing.

With time, you'll realize that in most circumstances, it's easier and safer to use all of your fingers (just like those kids that don't understand why they need to use all of their fingers when it seems so easy to pick the notes with the index finger !).

[guitarwolf]

well the thing is for me atleast its easier to pass over my middle finger than my ring. I star on my middle and only use those 3 fingers, middle pointer and thumb. I dont see me crossing the pinky or even starting there, it doesnt feel natural. Should I force myself to do this so I can be fast? I can already go quite fast and am comfortable with just the 3. But then again like I said I wanna do it the best way I can.

[Aurelio]

these ones are my digits for that passage right hand (Chopin Nocturne C# minor, measure 15):

3,4,3   1,4,3   2,1   3,2,1   4,3,2   1,3,2

and... 1 (first note of measure 16)

try it!

[guitarwolf]

Does anyone do this piece with their pinky? Is that the best way to get used to playing?

[amee]

My fingering for this measure would be

[amee]

My fingering for this measure would be -

4-5-3 1-4-3 2-1-3 3-2-1 4-3-2 1-3-2 and 1 for the first note of the next measure.

But fingering really depends on personal preference and whats comfortable for you.