Unlocking the Secrets of  Piano Pedals

Piano Pedal Names
1–2 minutes

Piano Pedal technique is fundamental for students right from the elementary stage of learning. A comprehensive grasp of pedal technique is indispensable for pianists. Students develop pedal skills progressively, from beginner to advanced levels. Pedal adds depth, color and expressiveness to your music.

We will examine piano pedals in detail in this article. Let’s learn about the names of three pedals and their functions:

  1. Soft pedal– Soft pedal, also called una corda, is the leftmost one.

    β€’ Effect- It reduces the volume and creates a softer, more delicate tone.
  2. Sostenuto pedal– This pedal is the middle one. It has different functions depending on the pianos. In the Upright piano, this pedal is also called a practice pedal, which muffles the sound of the piano for quiet practice, whereas in Grand pianos, it allows to sustain selected notes while others decay naturally.
  3. Damper pedal– The rightmost pedal is the most frequently used. It is also called the Sustain Pedal. When pressed, it lifts all the dampers from the strings.

    β€’ Effect- It creates a richer and resonant tone, connecting the notes close together with a more legato sound.

Below, the damper pedal Symbols are shown.

Reading the Damper Pedal Symbols on the Music sheet

Happy Pedaling!

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