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Writer's pictureHelena Aung

Breathing New Life into Piano Playing: My Insights

Greetings, fellow music enthusiasts! Today, I want to shed light on a fundamental yet often overlooked aspect of musical performance—the art of breathing. Let's explore the significance of incorporating breath into piano playing and the transformative impact it can have on crafting a more expressive and melodious performance.



1. Percussive Instruments and the Neglect of Breathing


Let's dive right in. As pianists, we're often lured by the percussive nature of our instrument, relying on sheer muscle power. While playing fast and loud is commendable, there's a risk of neglecting a vital musical element—breathing. I've noticed, especially among younger pianists, a tendency to forget to breathe entirely when navigating high-speed passages. This habit can introduce tension and disrupt the natural flow of our music.


2. The Vocal Connection


Drawing parallels between piano playing and vocal artistry has been a game-changer in my approach. We want the melody. Therefore, there has to be breath. Just as a singer breathes to sustain a melody, I advocate for seamlessly incorporating breaths into piano playing, fostering a more organic and connected musical experience.


3. Phrasing and Breath


Consider the phrasing of a melody by envisioning how you would sing it. Take it a step further with a litmus test: sing the melody and see if you run out of breath. This simple practice can profoundly influence the interpretation of a piece, creating a deeper connection between you and the music. By treating each melody as a phrase with natural breaths, we can elevate our performances to a more expressive level.


4. Tone and Expression


Let's talk language. Just as variations in tone can alter the meaning of words, the same goes for music. Incorporating breaths strategically allows us to infuse nuanced emotions into our playing, transforming a mechanical rendition into a vibrant and engaging musical experience.


5. Practical Advice


Here's a practical takeaway from my years of experience—breathe while playing. Consider breath an integral part of the musical process, urging yourself to transcend mere notes and embrace the spaces between them. This thoughtful approach, I believe, can lead to more authentic and compelling performances.


Final Thoughts

In a realm where technical brilliance often grabs the spotlight, let's redirect our focus to an aspect that's too often overlooked—breathing. I encourage aspiring pianists and fellow music enthusiasts to embrace this holistic approach, recognizing the transformative power of breath in creating

music that resonates on a deeper level.


To explore further into my teachings and programs, feel free to contact me and consider booking a call to embark on a renewed perspective in the world of piano playing. Until our next musical rendezvous, remember–breathe life into your music!

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