Legato (legato) in translation from Italian means "connected". In music, including piano music, the concept of legato means one of the main types of articulation, that is, a way of performing a melody. In addition to legato, legatissimo is also distinguished - very smooth articulation, non-legato - the performance is not coherent, but not too abrupt.
Instructions
Step 1
Start playing legato on the piano with your strongest fingers: second and third. Choose etudes in which the articulation will be either legato or a combination of legato and non-legato. Gradually move on to etudes and pieces in which a combination of strong (for example, third) fingers and weak (fifth) fingers is used when performing this technique. Pay special attention to the development of the first finger: use exercises for its mobility. As you master legato with all five fingers, play only the white keys at first.
Step 2
Try interval chains first, then move on to etudes and children's pieces, polkas. Start playing legato smoothly, as if plunging your fingers into the keys at the first sound. Play the piece so that the second note starts to sound even before the first one has finished. Do not forget about dynamic shades, but do not place special emphasis on weak and strong beats of measures.
Step 3
Play the melody legato, working not only with your fingers, but also with your entire palm. Do not try to keep your hands still, they should wiggle slightly in time with the game. At the same time, try not to raise your palms high and do not fix your fingers. The brush can be raised only slightly on the second measure to reduce the pressure of the fingers on the keys and enhance the legato effect.
Step 4
If legato on the piano does not work, it may be because the performer's hand is “wobbly”. As a rule, hand instability occurs in children and aspiring pianists. Set aside the legato etudes for a while, try to secure your arm with non-legato articulation. start training with the third fingers, paying attention to the palm, which should overhang the "dome" and be sure to monitor your posture, as much depends on it in performance skills. Gradually move on to sketches of a mixed composition: non-legato and legato. The main thing is that your hands are moderately relaxed. If you can't articulate with both hands at once, try in turn, and then connect.
