5 ways to practise scales

The importance of scales cannot be underestimated. From a technical perspective, scales involve practising some of the most regularly used piano fingering patterns. From a theoretical perspective, scales reinforce one’s knowledge of the different musical keys. A secure understanding of what it means to play in a particular key (both technically and theoretically) makes it significantly easier to recognise and contextualize different chord shapes and musical patterns.

Despite its importance, scales practice can sometimes seem like a bit of a chore. However, there are a number of ways to make it both more interesting and more valuable. Here are five scales exercises to try.

1) Varied rhythms

Vary scales by playing them with different rhythms, such as dotted and triplet rhythms. Play along with a metronome to keep the tempo even.

2) Staccato scales

Try playing your scales staccato. This is a great way to practise your staccato playing, and staccato scales are a requirement for the higher grade ABRSM exams. You could also try playing scales legato when ascending then staccato when descending (and vice versa).

3) Varied dynamics

Try playing a scale with a crescendo when ascending and a diminuendo when descending. This adds important musical shape to the scale.

4) Crossed hands

When practising scales with both hands together, try crossing the hands over so that the right hand is an octave lower than the left hand. When you come to play the scale without the hands crossed, it will feel significantly easier to play!

5) Scales improvisation

This is a great scales activity for younger pupils as it helps them to understand how keys and scales are related. Simply challenge your student to improvise a piece of music, using only the notes from a particular scale they have been learning, while you play a simple accompaniment.

Happy scales practice!