Playing Your First Notes: C-D-E

Your First Three Notes

Now that you know how to sit and position your hands, it’s time to play! We’ll start with three notes: C, D, and E — played with fingers 1, 2, and 3 of your right hand.

Hand Placement

1. Find Middle C (to the left of a group of 2 black keys, center of keyboard)
2. Place your right hand thumb (finger 1) on Middle C
3. Place finger 2 on D (next white key to the right)
4. Place finger 3 on E (next white key after D)

Playing Technique

Press each key with a gentle, firm motion. Think of it as “dropping” your finger into the key rather than “pushing” it down. Each note should sound clear and even.

• Play C (thumb) — hold for 1 second — release
• Play D (finger 2) — hold for 1 second — release
• Play E (finger 3) — hold for 1 second — release

Exercise 1: Up and Down

Play this pattern slowly and evenly:

C → D → E → D → C (repeat 4 times)

Keep your wrist steady. Only your fingers should move — your hand stays in position.

Exercise 2: Rhythm Patterns

Try playing with different rhythms. Say the note names aloud as you play:

• Pattern A: C-C-D-D-E-E-D-D (each note equal length)
• Pattern B: C—D—E— (hold each note longer)
• Pattern C: C-D-E, C-D-E, E-D-C, E-D-C (groups of 3)

Left Hand Too!

Now try the same with your left hand: place finger 3 on C, finger 2 on D, and thumb on E. Notice the fingers are mirrored! Practice the same exercises with your left hand.