Learning how to play blues piano takes time. It takes more than a few lessons to learn the basics of instrument-playing, and it takes even longer to learn the right notes. Learning to play this type of instrument requires one to have a firm knowledge of chords and music theories. Reading music may help but it pays to have a good ear. Know the basics first and familiarize yourself with the piano through practice.
Blues piano-playing finds it origins during the same period when the style was beginning to gain popularity among guitar players. These notes on the instrument are actually similar to blues notes on the guitar. By using a technique called bending, guitar players are able to manipulate notes and make them sound a half-step lower or higher. The same sound can be challenging to imitate on a piano without altering the strings inside.
Blues piano notes are achieved by altering the 3rd and 5th chord tones. They produce a more soulful sound compared to regular notes. A minor 3rd, for instance, should be played as a major 3rd. There are 3 ways to incorporate this style in your instrument-playing.
Instrument notes can be read as separate notes when they are included in your lines. You may also slide from the blues note into the resolution note. You may also choose to crush them together with resolution notes. These techniques are just some of the basics that can help you play this type of music on the instrument. Aside from these, here are a few more helpful guidelines when playing this instrument.
Listen to this style of music so you can have a deeper understanding of what the style is about. Go to your local music store for some advice on which records to pick. By listening to classics from well-known artists, you can get some useful pointers or even discover something that you like.
Obviously, easy licks should be practiced first before moving on to more difficult lessons. You may notice that your fourth finger tends be weaker than the others. This can result to a weaker sound which will be different from what you want to achieve. Try to work on this flaw as you practice.
Find out which licks are the most commonly played and prioritize these over more advanced licks. Performing with a music band does not require one to be extremely advanced in playing piano notes. You can survive even with a few, useful licks. You can even manage to entertain a small group of close friends.
If you want to learn more about playing the piano take a look at How to Play Blues Piano or read this – How to Play Blues Piano