A recent video by the always creative Tim Topham features 20 Ways to Teach (or Play) Scales on the Piano:
I’ve used a handful of these before, but especially like the idea of playing each scale with only one finger – for both theoretical purposes and to encourage the technique of weighted arms and whole arm movement. Definitely something I’m going to try with my own scales and encourage my students to try as well!
kathyrn hixson says
I had a teacher who had me practice scales in thirds and sixths. For example:
RH starts on E, LH starts on C ( third below). Play scale in harmony. There was a pattern that included the contrary motion and parallel but it started with thirds. I would have to go over it to see if I remember the pattern.
natalie says
That’s a great reminder, Kathryn! One of my teachers had me do that a few times as well, but I’d forgotten about it! I’ll have to give it a try as well and see if it comes back to me…