Legato touch

Why this matters

Legato is the default touch for melodies. Connecting notes smoothly is the difference between a phrase and a list of notes.

What you should be able to do

Play 8 five-note patterns with clean finger connection and no gaps or overlaps.

Estimated focus time: 1.5h

How to practice this on your piano today

1. 1. Play C-D-E-F-G slowly, holding each note until the next one is fully down.
2. 2. Listen for any gap or overlap. If you hear a gap, you released too early; if you hear two notes ringing, you released too late.
3. 3. Try the same with the left hand on the same keys (one octave lower).
4. 4. Aim for 5 perfect ascents and descents.
5. 5. Try with a familiar tune (e.g. Mary Had a Little Lamb) — focus only on smooth connection.