The Ultimate Guide to Learning Piano Scales and Modes with Proper Fingering

Are you looking to improve your piano playing by mastering scales and modes while ensuring proper fingering? Look no further. This guide will help you find the best resources to achieve your goals of becoming a virtuoso pianist.

Recommended Book for Learning Piano Scales and Modes

One highly recommended resource for learning and practicing piano scales and modes with proper fingering is Hanon: The Virtuoso Pianist in Sixty Exercises.

About Hanon: The Virtuoso Pianist in Sixty Exercises

Hanon's book is a comprehensive guide that has aided over 450,000 students in achieving their dream of playing beautiful piano pieces for over a decade. This book not only focuses on scales but also enhances your technique through a series of exercises. Its methodical and practical approach makes it an essential tool for any aspiring pianist.

Users can access this resource here. Not only is it beneficial for studying scales, but it is also ideal for warming up before practice or performance. Amazon offers it at an affordable price, making it a fantastic investment for your piano journey.

Why Hanon is the King of Scales and Modes

Hanon sets the standard for methodical and practical scale practice. The book drills directly into all the essential techniques needed to master scales and modes in a structured manner. Unlike other resources that may be less focused or less efficient, Hanon ensures a thorough understanding through its comprehensive exercises. The step-by-step approach makes it easy to follow and results-driven.

Understanding Major and Minor Scales

The concept of scales is quite simple once you have a grasp of major, harmonic minor, and melodic minor scales. Let's take the example of the D major scale. The proper fingering technique involves starting with 1 2 3, followed by the thumb under technique (1 2 3 4), and continuing with 5 or 1 if you are stopping or continuing, respectively.

Playing Scales and Modes

For those interested in playing the second mode of the D major scale, known as the E Dorian mode, the process is straightforward. You simply start with your index finger on the E note, and the rest of the fingers follow their normal positions as in the D major scale. This makes it easier to transition into playing other modes as you've likely practiced this sequence numerous times.

Additionally, a common technique in scale exercises is to play a scale starting with the first note, then the second, the third, and so on. This is exactly what you do when playing all the modes of a given scale, such as D major. The only exceptions are scales involving chromatic passing tones, eight-note scales, certain diminished scales, and the whole tone scale. These scales require special attention due to their unique structures, but you have plenty of time to master them.

Alternative Resources for Learning Piano online

For those who prefer to learn piano online without attending classes, there are several resources available. One such guide has been particularly helpful for many learners. It is simple, straightforward, and quite powerful. This guide makes even complex concepts understandable and helps individuals play the piano well in a short time without needing to master musical theory.

Access the guide here. It has provided excellent results for many users seeking to improve their piano skills without the need for traditional classroom instruction. The guide covers essential techniques, practice methods, and tips for improving your playing.

Conclusion

Becoming proficient in playing piano scales and modes with proper fingering is a foundational skill that can greatly enhance your overall piano playing. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate player, Hanon's The Virtuoso Pianist in Sixty Exercises and the online guide mentioned above can be invaluable resources for your piano journey. Start practicing today and move closer to your musical dreams!