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My parents want me to teach my little brother until they determine whether or not he's interested. I think I'm capable--I'm some where in the intermediate level. However, they're really guilting me into doing this (I take 70$ lessons every week). However, I started him on one of my first books--the Noona introduction book. When he started playing, I notice that his fingers are FLAT! Is this normal for 4 year olds? If not, how do I alleviate the problem? Thanks!

I think I'd be normal for anyone that young to play flat. As long as he can play with flat fingers well, then I'd see where it takes him, until he hits a wall of mistakes. But, if he's successful, he could become the greatest pianst in the world (just like Horowitz :-P). Just see how he does for a little while, there's no rush.

Flat fingers? Nothing to worry about now. Most young kids just play so that is it comfortable to them. Most good pianist know not to conform to rules and do what is comfortable to them. Anyways, as your brother matures, he should figure what is best for him, and then use whatever hand position best fits the piece of music or what best fits his hand.

Nope. I completely disagree with virtuoso_735. A four-year-old is just as capable of learning as an older child. It might take the child a little longer, but they can still learn. Show this little boy how to correctly hold his fingers. Remind him often and be very patient. There are some things that simply can't be played with flat fingers, especially when your hands are small and weak anyway. When a child is advanced and mature enough in music, THEN they can decide what works best for their hand. Right now is the training stage.

Look at it this way. If you plunk two plates down in front of a child, one with a salad and another with a chocolate cupcake on it, which one are they going to pick? Do you think the child will make a healthy decision? Immature musicians do not know what works best for their hands until they have been taught.