5 important steps to check when learning a new piece at the piano.
Starting a new piece of music can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially if it’s more advanced than what you’ve played before. But by approaching it strategically, you can set yourself up for success from the very START. Here’s how I teach my piano students to begin:
Step 1: Analyze the Key Signature
The first thing to check is the key signature, which tells you what key the piece is in and what accidentals (sharps or flats) to expect throughout. Understanding the key helps you:
• Identify scale patterns and harmonies that will appear frequently in the piece as well as a “color” of the music - is it Major key or minor key?
• Anticipate tricky passages by practicing the scale and arpeggios in the key signature the Piano piece is in.
• Know what accidentals to be mindful of while reading notes and playing.
For example, if your piece is in G major, we are looking what is the sharp sign is next to the treble and bass clef. Then practicing the G major scale before playing will reinforce the tonality and help your fingers get comfortable with the white and black keys.
Step 2: Understand the Time Signature
Next, look at the time signature, which tells you how many beats are in each measure and what note value gets the beat. The most common time signatures include:
• 4/4 (Common Time) – Four beats per measure, quarter note gets one beat.
• 3/4 (Waltz Time) – Three beats per measure, quarter note gets one beat.
• 6/8 (Compound Time) – Six beats per measure, eighth note gets one beat (often grouped in two sets of three).
In this piece we are in 3/4 time signature.
Understanding the time signature helps you:
• Establish the correct rhythm before playing. Counting out loud could be very helpful to get into the rhythm and pulse of the music.
• Identify syncopations or complex rhythms that may require extra attention.
• Feel the pulse naturally, which makes phrasing and expression more fluid.
Step 3: Scan for Rhythmic Challenges
Before playing, take a moment to look for any difficult rhythms, ties, or syncopations. Clap or tap out these rhythms separately to internalize them before adding the notes. If you see a passage with triplets, dotted rhythms, or polyrhythms, isolating them in your practice can prevent frustration later.
Step 4: Identify Repeating Patterns and Phrasing
Music often contains repetitive patterns, such as sequences, chord progressions, or motifs. Identifying these in advance makes learning easier because you’re not starting from scratch in every measure. Look for:
• Melodic patterns – Is a phrase repeated in different registers?
• Harmonic patterns – Does the left hand play similar chord structures throughout?
• Dynamics and articulation – Where are the expressive markings?
Step 5: Slow, Hands-Separate Practice
Once you’ve analyzed the piece, begin playing slowly, hands separately if needed section by section . Focus on accuracy over speed, and gradually bring everything together.
Conclusion
By first analyzing the key signature, time signature, and rhythmic structure, you set yourself up for efficient and effective practice. Approaching a new piece intentionally will make learning smoother and more enjoyable while helping you develop deeper musical understanding.
Ready to start? Choose a piece, apply these steps, and enjoy the journey of making music!
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