Hi,

I'm relatively new to piano but I'm not a complete novice either. I've decided that I want to play this march:

http://parlorsongs.org/content/d/doubleeagle.htm

The very first section after the introduction is the part I have the most trouble with. A lot (all) of the time the fingers in my right hand get stiff and straighten out, which I know is pretty bad. Even when I manage to play this part all the way through, I can't get the sound nearly as crisp as I would like it. I also have a little trouble with the introduction. The section with all the really low notes is the only one I don't have much trouble with. I haven't even tried the trio yet.

How can I make the keys feel lighter and more natural under my fingers? Do I need to relax more? How can I do that? It's hard to relax when the piece is that fast and so much is happening at one time (same with curving the fingers). I need some advice from a more experienced player!

Thank you.

If you are having trouble playing a difficult piece you may want to step back and work on some exercises such as Hanon, which will help to loosen up your hands. Even if you just practice excercise no 1, which is the easiest for about a half hour you should start to notice a difference.

That is a pretty large bite and I admire your courage. If you don't get the response you request here- you may try the Pianist Corner forum.

Thanks Chris G, I do have a Hanon book but haven't been practicing it much. I will now and hopefully that will help. Thanks also Carl Mc. I'll take your advice and post this again in the Pianist's Corner.