Weeks 5-6: reading and touch · technique

Soft and loud dynamics

Change volume intentionally without changing tempo.

Why this matters

Dynamics are how music breathes. Without them everything sounds robotic.

What you should be able to do

Play 8 echo patterns with clear soft/loud contrast and steady beat.

Estimated focus time: 1.25h

How to practice this on your piano today

  1. 1. Play 8 quarter notes on middle C, alternating loud-soft-loud-soft.
  2. 2. Listen — is the loud REALLY louder, or are you fooling yourself?
  3. 3. Try crescendo (gradual loudening): play 8 notes from very soft to loud.
  4. 4. Try with a familiar tune — find one phrase you want to make loud and another soft.
  5. 5. Aim for clear contrast without changing tempo.

Interactive coming soon

Velocity capture requires Web MIDI.