What is legato playing on the piano?

Legato playing on the piano involves producing a smooth and connected sound by linking the notes together seamlessly. In legato, there is minimal or no separation between consecutive notes, and the overall effect is a flowing, uninterrupted musical line. Achieving legato requires specific techniques and considerations to create a seamless connection between the played notes. Here are some guidelines on how to play legato on the piano:

1. Finger Technique:

• Finger Sliding:

  • Practice smoothly sliding your fingers from one key to the next without lifting them entirely. This involves a continuous motion to connect the notes.

• Finger Weight:

  • Use the weight of your fingers to produce a full sound. Allow the fingers to sink into the keys, maintaining a sense of connection between each note.

2. Hand and Wrist Movement:

• Smooth Hand Transitions:

  • Work on transitioning between hand positions without disrupting the flow of the music. Keep the hand movements fluid.

• Wrist Flexibility:

  • Maintain flexibility in your wrists. A supple wrist allows for smooth transitions between different hand positions and facilitates legato playing.

3. Finger and Key Interaction:

• Avoid Heavy Key Strikes:

  • Legato requires a gentle touch. Avoid striking the keys too heavily, as this can result in a staccato or disjointed sound.

• Controlled Release:

  • Release each key with control. Lift your fingers only as much as necessary to allow the keys to rebound, maintaining a connection between the notes.

4. Finger Independence:

• Develop Finger Independence:
  • Practice exercises that enhance finger independence. This allows you to control each finger individually, contributing to a more even legato.

5. Pedal Usage:

• Selective Pedaling:
  • Use the sustain pedal judiciously to enhance legato playing. The pedal can help connect notes and create a more resonant sound. However, avoid excessive pedal use, as it can blur the music.

6. Phrasing:

• Musical Phrasing:
  • Pay attention to the phrasing of the music. Understand where phrases begin and end, and aim to maintain a smooth, connected sound within each phrase.

7. Listening and Expression:

• Listening Skills:
  • Listen actively to the sound you produce. Strive for a cohesive and expressive legato, adapting your playing based on the mood and character of the music.

8. Slow Practice:

• Gradual Tempo Increase:
  • Begin practicing legato passages at a slow tempo, focusing on achieving a smooth connection between notes. Gradually increase the tempo as you build control and confidence.

9. Use of Arm Weight:

• Arm Weight Transfer:
  • Transfer the weight of your arm between notes to create a continuous and connected sound. Allow the arm to guide the fingers smoothly across the keys.

Legato playing is an essential skill for pianists, and it adds a beautiful and expressive quality to music. As with any piano technique, consistent and mindful practice is key to developing a refined legato touch.