How To Play With Dynamics on the Piano

Have you ever heard a professional piano player play something simple, but it moved you? Here's how to play with dynamics on the piano:

Exciting News: We're Open at Our New Location!
Miller Piano Specialists is under new ownership and has relocated to a spacious, convenient new location. While we're still settling in, we're ready to serve you!

New Location: 3656 Trousdale Dr #111, Nashville, TN 37204.

Call or Text: (615) 771-0020 Request an Appointment

By texting us, you agree to receive SMS. Reply STOP to unsubscribe. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Your Privacy is our priority. Your information will not be shared.

Notice: Effective April 1, 2024, Miller Piano Specialists is not an authorized Yamaha Piano dealer and will no longer carry new Yamaha Pianos. For more information, please visit this FAQ.

Miller Piano Specialists April 23, 2022 2 Min Read

When we play the piano, we all want it to bring emotion. Have you ever heard a professional piano player play something simple, but it moved you? You might have even wondered, “why doesn’t it sound that way when I play the piano?” Keep reading to learn how to play with dynamics on the piano:

To Play With Dynamics on the Piano

Music’s expressive element is dynamics. The term “dynamics” refers to how a song’s volume or phrasing fluctuates. Music does the same in the same manner that we amplify our voices when delivering an exciting or sad narrative. If you can find a method to be expressive in your playing, you’ll be able to tell whatever tale you choose and have others FEEL it. Here are some useful tips to help you take your piano game to the next level:

1. Volume Changes

concert pianist

The simplest approach to creating a mood in music is to vary the volume. Using varying volumes, try playing different parts of your music. You can make dramatic differences or subtle differences. In any case, you’ll notice a difference in mood as you play with different volume levels. Using crescendos and decrescendos to create atmosphere is one of my favorite ways to use volume because it will cause a progressive volume shift and make your audience feel putty in your hands.

2. Pedal, Phrasing, Pauses

To create a sense of phrasing, use your damper pedal to connect the notes. You can also add suspense with a brief dramatic pause here and there. A good way to do this is by experimenting with pauses and suspense in a song that may not require it. You might be surprised how you can change a song’s “feel” by using the pedal, phrasing, and pauses.

3. Get Emotional

man with headphones and keyboard at laptop

You must feel what you are playing if you want your listeners to experience it. Create a tale that connects to what you’re playing so you can immerse yourself in the emotional content. Don’t be afraid to move your body a little when playing and feeling those emotions. It’ll enhance the expression! These basic tactics will completely transform your game. You can work on these skills while playing songs or even as part of your technical practice.

Conclusion

Don’t forget to have fun with it, and show your emotions through your piano playing. We hope you enjoyed learning how to play with dynamics on the piano! If you want to purchase your dream piano, check us out at Miller Piano Specialists in Franklin, TN. If you have any questions about where to buy a piano for the best price, we are open! Our hours are Monday-Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. We are happy to help you in person again, using all the guidelines we have been provided. We are here for you.

Share This!

© 2025 Miller Piano Specialists
Privacy Policy
Link to Call Miller PS