Unlocking the fundamentals of the keyboard instrument.
The piano is a versatile musical instrument played using a keyboard. It's known for its wide range of sounds and its ability to play both melodies and harmonies simultaneously. Understanding its basic layout and how notes are organized is the first step to playing.
A piano keyboard consists of a repeating pattern of white and black keys. The white keys represent the natural notes (A, B, C, D, E, F, G), while the black keys represent sharps (#) and flats (b). This pattern helps you quickly identify notes.
Hover over or click a key to see its name and hear its sound.
Musical notes are named using the first seven letters of the alphabet: A, B, C, D, E, F, G. After G, the pattern repeats, starting again with A. This sequence forms an octave.
The black keys represent notes that are a half-step higher (sharp, #) or a half-step lower (flat, b) than their adjacent white keys. For example, the black key between C and D can be called C# (C sharp) or Db (D flat).
A chord is a group of three or more notes played together, creating a harmonic sound. The most common types are major and minor triads, which consist of three notes: a root, a third, and a fifth.
Select a chord to see its notes highlighted on the keyboard and hear it played.
Music isn't just about notes; it's also about when and for how long those notes are played. Rhythm is the pattern of sounds and silences in music. The beat is the basic unit of time, like a pulse.
Observe the metronome to understand the concept of a steady beat.
Learning piano takes time and consistent practice. Start by familiarizing yourself with the keyboard, then try playing simple melodies. Listen carefully to the sounds you produce.