Jered McKenna

For each exercise, there is a video: For those who have some basic music reading skills, you will learn more quickly referring to the sheet music PDF. For those with no music reading skills, use the videos. But, every beginner will benefit from watching me play the exercises at least once so you can imitate me and the "feel" of the music. First, I play the whole line. You’ll see the “feel” and rhythm. If you’ve had some piano lessons before, this might be enough for you. Then, I break it down step by step. I show you tiny groups of notes, explain them slowly, and talk about how to move your hands. Reading music notes is optional here. I describe everything out loud and show you on the keyboard.

Watch the video. Look carefully at how I play—watch even my arms and wrists. Look at for the "Hopping Baseball Hands" video after exercise 1. Imitate me. Try to copy not just the notes, but also the way I move. Play slowly, very slowly. See the notes in your mind first. Imagine playing them before your fingers touch the keys. At first, it may feel slow. But slow is the secret! Over time, your hands will move on their own.

Here are some sayings to keep in mind: “Play so slowly that it’s impossible to play a wrong note.” “Pretend you are underwater—play in slow motion.” “Play one note (or chord), stop, relax, then find the next one. Never rush.”