Many piano students encounter the problem of the fourth finger lacking flexibility and independence during their learning process. It tends to stick to the third finger or have difficulty lifting. What's the reason behind this?

In fact, for beginners, it's quite normal to experience this phenomenon. The fourth finger naturally shares muscles with the third and fifth fingers, making it less flexible than the others. There's no need for piano students to be overly concerned.

So, how can this be improved?

1. Correct Hand Position:

Generally, the correct hand position should be relaxed, resembling holding a ball, with a slight hollow in the middle, and each finger slightly curved. All fingers should touch the keys with their fingertips, and pay attention that the fifth finger should not bend outward.

2. Free Movement of Fingers:

While playing, building upon the first point, allow the fourth finger to move naturally along with the adjacent fingers, enabling it to lift and drop freely. For example, when the third finger presses a key, lifting the fourth finger can also involve lifting the fifth finger freely, or when the fifth finger presses a key, lifting the fourth finger can involve the second and third fingers lifting freely along with it.

3. Practice Lifting Fingers High:

Position your hand correctly on the keys and prepare for keystrokes. Lift the fingers high from the base, with a moderate bend at the first joint, and use the finger's own strength to press down. Pay attention to lifting the fingers as high as possible during playing. When pressing the keys, do so forcefully and quickly to develop the strength of the finger.