Pedaling is an important part of piano playing, and effective pedaling generally helps the pianist create the effect of “legato” or smooth playing. It also can help sustain notes when the pianist has moved his or her hand to do other things. This video is designed to give a simple introduction to proper pedal technique.

We want to have our pedaling help our overall sound. When pedaling is improperly used, it can cause a muddy or blended sound of multiple chords or notes bleeding together. This usually results from the pedal being applied a bit too early or not changed often enough. This video shows an important sequence that must be used to ensure that you get the pedaling desired effect.