Taught by renowned instructor
Dominic Cheli
In this course, Dominic Cheli teaches the basics of scales, starting from the 5-finger hand position, all the way to 4-octave scales covering the expanse of the keyboard. He discusses different practice techniques such as "grouping practice" , playing scales as "tone clusters", and the proper alignment of the body, in the arm, wrist, and finger.
General Principles for Scales and Setting up the Hand
In this lesson, Dominic Cheli teaches general principles for scales, setting up the hand, understanding enharmonic equivalanices and the importance of parallel/relative minor keys. In addition he provides advice on playing the "fastest" scales at the keyboard: glissandos
The 5-Finger Hand Position
Dominic Cheli teaches the beginnings of playing scales through the 5-finger hand position as well as healthy habits to start incorporating into your playing immediately.
One Octave Scales and Their Importance
In this lesson, Dominic Cheli teaches why playing scales at 1-octave can provide wonderful benefits. In addition he shows the the function of the thumb and a special fingering for chromatic scales to start using right away.
Building Speed and Accuracy in Scales With Grouping Practice
In this lesson, Dominic Cheli teaches the most critical way to increasing the speed, confidence, and accuracy of your scales: grouping practice. He shows how to use this method to build your fast-twitch muscles, and develop finger independance.
Hand and Arm Alignment for Scales
In this lesson, Dominic Cheli teaches proper hand and arm alignment through the lens of playing 3-octave scales. In addition, he discusses the importance of dynamics in your scales to create smoothness and the added sense of virtuosity.
Engaging Your Eyes and Brain for Four-Octave Scales
Dominic Cheli teaches 4-octave scales (the pinnacle of scale-playing) and how to engage your eyes and brain properly when covering the entire expanse of the keyboard.
Playing The Grand Form of Scales, Using your Energy Properly, and Chromatic Scales
In this lesson, Dominic Cheli teaches what the Grand Form of Scales is, how to use your energy properly across extended scale passages, and the importance of the pedal for virtuosity. In addition, he shares a special fingering for chromatic scales and the recommended intervals to practice them at.
Playing Virtuoso Scales Based on Hand Positioning
For reaching the highest level of virtuosity in scales, Dominic Cheli teaches why focusing on hand position, forearm guiding the hand, and practicing scales as "tone clusters" can help reach the summit of this technical ability
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Unlock Course →Dominic Cheli’s career includes debuts at Walt Disney Concert Hall and at Carnegie Hall. He has CDs out on the Naxos and Delos labels and is the Head of Piano at tonebase.
read full bio →Explore 1,000+ in-depth lessons taught by GRAMMY winners, Juilliard professors, and world-renowned performers, covering everything from timeless repertoire to advanced technique and artistry.
