Kathy's Piano Studio

🎹 Piano Pedals Explained!
Ever wonder what those three pedals under the piano actually do? Here's a clear breakdown:
Left Pedal → Soft Pedal
Also called the una corda pedal. It makes the sound much softer and gentler by shifting the hammers so they strike fewer strings (or with less force). Perfect for delicate, intimate playing.
Middle Pedal → Sostenuto Pedal
The most misunderstood pedal! It only sustains the specific notes you're holding when you press it. All other notes played afterward won't be affected. Great for creating beautiful layered effects in classical music.
Right Pedal → Damper Pedal (Sustain Pedal)
The most commonly used pedal. When pressed, it lifts all the dampers, allowing the strings to continue vibrating and ring out even after you lift your fingers. This creates that rich, full, connected sound we associate with piano music.
Quick Tip: On most upright pianos, the middle pedal functions differently (sometimes as a practice mute), but on grand pianos, it works as the true sostenuto pedal.

Only 2 weeks to the deadline to submit to our Online Piano Festival. Share your talent with us! Great for students who don't have easy access to an in-person festival! Details at cncm.ca. Or reach out for more info #pianoteacher #pianostudent #pianofestival

Enjoy the break!

Music is written in black and white, but when it is played, the world fills with color.

We had a great Pianolympic closing pizza party! Five countries competed in five different categories for the month of February. Well done!

Your voice doesn’t need force — it needs freedom.

One of the most powerful vocal tips I give singers and speakers is this: STOP 🛑 pushing for sound, and start allowing it. ✅
When your breath flows steadily and your jaw, tongue, and shoulders stay relaxed, your voice naturally becomes clearer, richer, and more confident.

Power in the voice comes from ease — not effort.

Happy Wednesday! Today I am highlighting these FREE resources in honor of Mozart's birthday week! Get your copies, and find lots of other Mozart-related freebies, on my blog here: https://www.chrissyricker.com/blog/musicianship-monthly-31-composer-focus-with-wolfgang-amadeus-mozart