Discoveries in Teaching Methods at Nanqiao Lyu's Piano Studio: Part Two

In the ongoing exploration of innovative teaching methods at Nanqiao Lyu's Piano Studio, a profound emphasis on the enjoyment and diversity of repertoire has emerged as a key factor in American students' piano practice. As noted in the previous installment, the limited practice time that many beginners face due to their varied interests creates opportunities for unique exercises that can significantly enhance their playing skills. Building on the previous exercises, Lyu introduces an additional finger strength training technique that further develops students' technical abilities and sound clarity. This exercise involves raising each finger to its maximum height while using the palm's grip strength to strike the tabletop. Each finger should tap the surface with purpose, aiming for a clear and resonant sound. Students are encouraged to perform 30 strong strikes per finger, focusing on producing a loud, crisp sound with each tap. This exercise serves multiple purposes. First, it effectively strengthens the muscles in the hands and fingers, promoting greater dexterity and control. Unlike playing on the piano, where a gentle touch can produce sound, striking a tabletop requires more deliberate effort. This dynamic encourages students to be mindful of their finger strength and the clarity of their sound production. If the force applied is insufficient or if the fingers collapse, the resulting sound will lack the desired sharpness, prompting students to adjust their technique. Lyu’s years of teaching experience have shown that this exercise is particularly beneficial for students who have limited practice time or struggle with understanding sound clarity. By focusing on the tabletop strikes, students gain immediate feedback on their finger strength and technique, leading to noticeable improvements in their piano playing. This direct approach fosters a deeper understanding of how finger control affects sound production, which is essential for developing expressive playing. Moreover, this exercise complements the previous hand position practice on the table. Together, they form a comprehensive training regimen that enhances both physical relaxation and muscular strength, addressing common challenges faced by beginner pianists. Students learn to approach their practice with a sense of engagement and creativity, making the process not just about technical mastery but also about musical expression.

As Lyu continues to refine and adapt her teaching methods, the positive impact on her students becomes increasingly evident. The combination of these innovative exercises encourages a holistic approach to piano education, fostering not only technical proficiency but also a greater appreciation for sound quality and musicality.

In the next installment, we will delve into further discoveries that promise to revolutionize the landscape of piano teaching, revealing more insights into Nanqiao Lyu’s unique methodologies and their effectiveness in nurturing skilled and expressive pianists.