Practicing scales is not one of the most exciting tasks for many piano players. It often seems monotonous and unimportant. But if you take a closer look, scales are an essential part of melodies in many pieces. They are particularly indispensable in improvisation – in jazz, for example. Whether it’s about harmonic or melodic elements, scales provide the basis for playing creatively and confidently.
For beginners in particular, it makes sense to incorporate practicing scales into your routine right from the start. Here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to do this – this time with the A major scale, which contains 3 sharps. It is therefore a cross key and the raised notes are F#, C# and G#.
1. Practice briefly but regularly
Only take 3 to 5 minutes per practice session for scales. It doesn’t have to be long – the important thing is that you do it regularly. How to make practicing scales a habit.
2. Understand why scales are important
Scales are like building blocks of music – just like chords. Even if they themselves do not “right" music, they help you learn pieces faster and become more confident when playing them.
3. Pay attention to fingering and posture
Take a close look at the recommended fingerings for the A major scale and stick to them. Also make sure that your hands remain relaxed so that no tension creeps in.
4. Start with A major – only in the right hand
Start with the A major scale in the right hand. It has three accidentals (F#, C#, G#) and is therefore a good exercise to get used to black keys.
5. Play fluently (legato)
Make sure that the notes flow into each other without pauses. Everything should sound smooth and flowing.
6. Practice with the left hand
If you feel confident with your right hand, practise the A major scale with your left hand too. The same rules apply here: correct fingerings, staying relaxed and a smooth flow of playing.
7. Bring a metronome into play
As soon as you can play the scale easily, practise with a metronome. Start with quarter notes at 60 bpm (beats per minute). When you are confident, increase the tempo step by step up to 120 bpm.
8. Switch to eighth notes
If quarter notes work well, try eighth notes. Reset the metronome to 60 bpm and work your way up again.
9. Play with both hands together
If you have a good grip on each hand individually, combine both hands. Play the A major scale with left and right at the same time. Start slowly and work your way up bit by bit.
Why practicing scales is so helpful?
Even if it sounds boring at first: with regular scale practise you will notice that your playing improves in many areas. Your fingers will automatically get used to the correct movements and learning new pieces will be much easier. It also develops your technique and understanding of music – and that’s an advantage for any style.
With a little patience and perseverance, practicing scales will not only become easier, but also an integral part of your musical development. It is worth it! There are also other scales than just the major scale. Here you will find an overview of. the topic of scales.