Weeks 5-6: reading and touch · technique

Detached touch

Release notes cleanly while staying in time.

Why this matters

Detached (non-legato/staccato) is needed for crisp, dance-like passages.

What you should be able to do

Play 8 detached patterns with consistent releases and no wrist tension.

Estimated focus time: 1.25h

How to practice this on your piano today

  1. 1. Play C-D-E-F-G with a clear gap between each note.
  2. 2. Listen for clean releases — no ringing, no overlap.
  3. 3. Keep the wrist relaxed; the bounce comes from the finger, not from a tense hand.
  4. 4. Try at varying tempos (60-120 BPM) — the gap should stay roughly proportional.
  5. 5. Apply to a familiar tune; alternate legato and detached phrases.

Interactive coming soon

Velocity-sensitive release detection requires Web MIDI input.