Starting to play chords

A 'chord' is the sound which is made when two or more notes are played at the same time. Chords can be played with either hand, or with both hands together. Chords are used in piano music to add 'harmony' to give a 43sounding 'backing' to melodies.

RIGHT HAND CHORDS
Try this. Put your right hand on the keyboard in the position you have been using. Then, press down the thumb (1) and the middle finger (3) at the same time, to play'Middle C' and 'e' together. The notes should be played at exactly the same time, and sound equally loudly. Try playing these notes together several times.

As you know, in music, notes which are played at the same time are shown one note above the other. So, the chord you have played looks like this.

Now, try using different fingers to play different chords:
First, play 'c' and 'e' with the thumb (1) and middle finger (3), as you have already done.
Next, play 'e' and 'g' with the middle finger (3) and little finger (5).
Then, play 'd' and 'f' with the index finger (2) and ring finger (4).
Finally, play 'c' and 'e' again with the thumb and middle finger.
Play each chord four times while you slowly count a beat. Make sure all notes sound equally loud. Then, rest your hand.

Links [ 1 ] - [ 2 ]