Tiny Numerical Terrors

If you have played the piano (or really any instrument) for very long at all, you have seen those tiny little numbers written above or below a note indicating which finger should be used to play that note. You have also probably ignored these numbers at some point. I know I certainly have. As a young pianist, these numbers were the BANE OF MY EXISTENCE! Every piano teacher I ever had would probably admit to the struggle I had with these tiny little numerical terrors. However, despite all of my struggle, I will admit now that these numbers are so incredibly important.

To the new piano student:

These numbers are important because they are your teachers. They will show your fingers how to properly use the keys. You see, playing the piano is not "natural." No one is born with the ability to play an instrument. They must be taught, and by that, I don't just mean that you need to learn to read music. Your fingers must be taught to be a bit acrobatic at times. Any student who has not yet mastered proper fingering will end up with some very awkward hand positions.

To the self-taught pianist:

One of the most obvious "tells" of a self-taught pianist is usually the use - or lack thereof - of proper fingering. I don't say this to discourage you. I'm saying this to emphasize the fact that if you do not have a teacher to force you to use the proper finger, please force yourself! I promise you will not regret it. It will create dexterity and smoothness that will allow you skill you didn't have before.

To the accomplished pianist

I hope that, like me, you had teachers who forced you to use the proper fingers even when you hated it! Let's not throw all that work out the window. Remember that you have five fingers, and they're all useful (even #4)!

Victoria Fesh

Victoria is the founder and lead teacher of Fesh Music Academy.