In the previous posts, I laid a foundation for practicing hand independence.  The exercises I gave were fairly basic, though they’re crucial to understanding the learning process.  Each new, consecutive pattern is derived in some way from a previous pattern, but made slightly more difficult. This way, I’m always maintaining an optimal level of difficulty.

The exercises thus far used only a basic Charleston figure in the left-hand.  Depending on your skill level, you may have thought the initial exercises were too easy.  However, if you were practicing a different, more difficult left-hand pattern, those initial exercises would be very helpful!

Here are a few examples of left-hand patterns that demonstrate different styles and concepts.  With all the exercises mentioned in previous posts, learning and mastering these patterns should be just a matter of time and practice!

Scott Joplin, Maple Leaf Rag:

Keith Jarrett, What is This Thing Called Love?

Keith Jarrett, Improvisation:

(Can’t see the video? Click here)

Thelonious Monk, Monk’s Point:

Egberto Gismonti, Palhaço:

Egberto Gismonti, Loro:

Bud Powell, Un Poco Loco:

Oscar Peterson, Boogie Blues Etude:

Doug Riley, Peace Dance:

Doug Riley, Jump for Joy:

Dave McKenna, Yardbird Suite:

John Taylor, Clapperclowe:

Fred Hersch, Songs Without Words: Aria

You can put almost anything in your left-hand, as long as you practice!

Here’s one more idea: swap hands!  Play the Charleston figure, or some other pattern with your right hand, and work towards improvising with your left.  The same principles apply; have fun!

• General Advice (Part 1/4)
• The Foundation (Part 2/4)
• Increasing Complexity (Part 3/4)
• More Patterns (Part 4/4)

Related posts:

1. Achieving Hand Independence – The Foundation (Part 2/4)
2. Achieving Hand Independence – General Advice (Part 1/4)
3. Achieving Hand Independence – Increasing Complexity (Part 3/4)
4. Autopilot
5. Reflections on Solo Piano (Part 2/8)