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Most of us have heard the words "sit up straight", or "don't slouch" as children, either from our parents, school teachers, or other authority figures. Of course we only pretended to listen and heed the advice while in the presence of said figures.

As we get older, we see the need for good posture present itself in different situations. And if we're smart enough we begin to practice holding ourselves proper, if for no other reason ... it just makes sense.

Good technique is crucial to performing any learned skill in a confident and effective manner. Even more so when the end result is music, and precision is needed to achieve the desired effect. How you approach a musical instrument will make all the difference in mediocre music and great music.

Maintaining proper posture is extremely important while learning (and playing) the piano. Poor posture will cause fatigue in students which will in turn result in loss of interest. The overall playing will suffer as well, and when it stops being fun and pleasant to listen to, the practice sessions will get shorter and less productive.

When you take your seat at the bench, make note of how you position yourself on the seat. You should ideally be using only about a third of the bench. You are not sitting in a chair. Sit on just enough of the bench to accommodate your buttocks.

Hopefully, your legs are long enough to have your feet flat on the floor. If not, you may need to find a different bench if yours is not adjustable.

Make a point of keeping your back nice and straight, but don't be tense. Let your arms dangle loosely at your side for a few moments to relax them. You should practice with as much relaxation in your arms as possible, a controlled sort of limberness that you will learn as you become more confident in your abilities.

Your fingers should be slightly curled as you play, again, think controlled limberness.

If you will make a conscious effort to maintain these points as you practice, eventually they will come to you naturally each time you sit at the piano. Not only will your practice sessions become more enjoyable, they will be more productive as well.

Learn more about this author, Marty Alan McGill.
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