How important is hand size for piano?

An important benchmark separating ‘small’ from ‘large’ hands is a span of 8.5 inches. Up to this point, the pianist cannot normally play a tenth, and more importantly, fast passages of octaves and large chords can be uncomfortable and involve pain or tension.

Is piano easier with big hands?

The piano is absolutely easier to play with large hands (if your fingers aren’t too broad) depending on how complex the piece is. Some pieces may be impossible to play without other tools if your hands are not large enough (notably Rachmaninoff).

What is considered small hands for piano?

(2002) who defined a ‘small hand’ as one that could not reach a tenth. This benchmark also marks the ability to play octaves with ease, speed and comfort in all situations. It is assumed that a classical pianist may wish to be able to play across a wide range of repertoire, to the best of their musical ability.

Are small hands bad for piano?

Yes! People with small hands and short fingers can play piano. With exercises and with practice, you can overcome small hands and short fingers to play piano just as well as anyone! To get the most out of your piano experience, it’s important to understand how hand and finger size can affect your playing.

What is a good hand size?

Hands come in all different shapes and sizes. The average length of an adult male’s hand is 7.6 inches — measured from the tip of the longest finger to the crease under the palm. The average length of an adult female’s hand is 6.8 inches.

Why is it important to play the piano with correct fingers?

Playing the piano with the correct fingers in mind is absolutely paramount for solid playing. Proper fingering ensures that long passages of notes are played with the same speed, feeling, and power. The right and left hand fingers are numbered in piano sheet music:

Is it better to play the piano with one hand or two?

Some students intuitively favor one hand or finger over another, but good piano technique demands ambidexterity and an even amount of power, flexibility, and strength within the fingers. Playing the piano with the correct fingers in mind is absolutely paramount for solid playing.

Can people with small hands and short fingers play piano?

Yes! People with small hands and short fingers can play piano. As with most instruments, pianos are made with all kinds of players in mind, especially modern versions. With exercises and with practice, you can overcome small hands and short fingers to play piano just as well as anyone!

What skills do you need to play piano?

Piano players, on the other hand, should possess both gross and fine motor skills (finger dexterity). It also helps teach or improve posture and core strength. Many musical instruments also teach and improve motor coordination skills, which involve using the arms and legs at the same time in a coordinated way.