Towards a Better Understanding of Piano Technique
Bruno Raikin · British Journal of Music Education · 1985
Control of touch is the alpha and omega of beautiful piano playing. Each finger is a member of a playing apparatus that functions as a multiple lever comprising six segments, from shoulder to fingertips, each of which is controlled by its particular muscles. When a note is played inadequately, tests on the finger and wrist joints usually reveal weaknesses and the need for specific isometric gymnastic exercises to strengthen the muscles that control them. These produce a unity in the functioning of the whole limb, without which complete control is impossible. Such unity is duplicated by the kinaesthetic memory, and confirmed at subsequent practices.