Piano Basics • Lesson 1

Sit, Arms & Hands

Good piano technique doesn't need to be complicated. A comfortable sitting position and relaxed hands give you a much better starting point for everything you'll play later.

About This Lesson

Comfort is Key

You don't need perfect concert-pianist posture before you're allowed to play. You do want a setup that lets your arms and hands move naturally without unnecessary tension.

1
Find a Comfortable Distance

Sit close enough to comfortably reach the keyboard, but not so close that your elbows are trapped against your body.

2
Let Your Arms Feel Natural

Your elbows should hang comfortably with roughly a 90-degree relationship through the arms rather than reaching or crowding the keyboard.

3
Keep a Natural Hand Curve

Let your fingers curve naturally — almost like you're loosely holding a ball. Don't flatten or stiffen them.

4
Keep Your Wrists Neutral

Avoid letting your wrists collapse far below the keys or bend sharply upward. Aim for a relaxed, fairly straight line through the hand and forearm.

Don't Turn Posture Into a Science Project

The goal isn't to freeze yourself into one “perfect” position. Good players move. Your body, arms, wrists, and hands will all adjust as you travel around the keyboard. Start from a comfortable, balanced position and stay relaxed enough to move naturally.