Learn Piano Scales
Are you trying to learn piano scales? Are you having troubles with them? You are not the only one. Piano scales often become a stumbling block for beginner and intermediate pianists. Not only are scales difficult to decipher visually, but they also are difficult to play with no mistakes. Scales are something that a pianist will learn in the "advanced section", and they also are something that a student may get seriously stuck with. If you have found yourself in this position, it's essential to understand what exactly is keeping you stuck with scales, and what you can do to improve.
1. Could the issue be an insufficient knowledge of notes?
First of all, you need to assess your knowledge of notes. Do you know them thoroughly? Before learning scales, you need to know notes inside out. Playing scales is similar to typing - you need to know where exactly letter "G" is, in order to become a fantastic typist. It's the same with notes, scales, and with piano in general. In order to start playing scales perfectly, you need to know the notes perfectly.
2. Do you practice your scales enough?
Once you are done with mastering the notes, you can start to improve the scales by practicing a lot. One way would be practicing each scale one by one - don't move onto the next scale until you can play the first one "with your eyes closed". How to test whether you have mastered this scale? Play it in a row 3-5 times. You should be able to do it without any mistakes. This type of practice is the best way to learn scales. Another way is to practice a range of scales, which is more enjoyable but less efficient than the first method.
3. Can you memorize scale patterns easily?
There are some clear patterns in piano scales, and learning to recognize these patterns could truly improve your capability to play scales well. There are patterns in scales, such as numbers and order of flats and sharps, and so on. For instance, Major, Melodic Minor, and Harmonic Minor have a very similar pattern.
If you find a pattern, you need to memorize it well. There is one great way to do it - by making meaningful and memorable short phrases with the letters in the pattern. For instance, for the "F C G D" pattern, you could make up something like "Free Cell Game Downloads" (it's just a sample).
Many people experience initial difficulties with piano scales. In fact, mastering scales may seem like a nightmare. In most cases, the problem with playing scales is neither the pianist, nor the scales, but how you learn scales. You will need to get your inner frustration under control, as scales are essential for you to play piano correctly (they train you in fingering techniques, as well as fluency in playing).
Anyone can learn and master piano scales, provided that they are willing to learn and practice a lot. Practice scales, and you will eventually master playing them confidently. Remember, when it comes to the piano, practice truly makes perfect.