Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 3: Prepare to play
• Method 2 of 3: Learn the basics
• Tips

Chopsticks is a simple, easy melody to learn to play the piano. Many students start with this simple melody as a way to get to know the piano keys, and so can you! Once you get the hang of it, you can even play it with someone.

To step

Method 1 of 3: Prepare to play

1. Have a piano or keyboard available that you can use. Of course you need the instrument to learn to play it. However, if you want to practice, you can draw the piano keys on a piece of paper and practice fingering on it.
2. Place stickers with notes on the keys. If you have trouble remembering which note to play, putting small circular stickers on each key can help. You can write the note of each key on the sticker. Make sure not to damage the keys! Do not write on the keys.
   • Place the stickers on the notes you are going to play for this song.
3. Print the sheet music. You can find the sheet music for Chopsticks in many places online. In the beginning you want to keep the sheet music while you play and are still learning it. Once you have memorized the notes, you can omit the sheet music. You don't have to print the music, but it will give you something to consult. If you can't read sheet music, you can just write down the notes on a piece of paper.
4. Try to learn the number. You won't be able to play it perfectly right away, so keep that in mind. It will be a fun experience, but you will have to practice and work. Don't get frustrated! This is part of the joy of learning.

Method 2 of 3: Learn the basics

1. Position your hands. Your hands should be turned sideways over your starting keys. Make sure both little fingers are closest to the piano. The idea is that the movements of your hands, in a way, mimic a chopping motion. That's why it's called Chopsticks!
   • For example, imagine that you are practicing some kind of karate on the piano keys.
2. Place your fingers on the keys. Your left pinky will be on the F-key and the right-hand pink on the G-key. Consult your cheat sheet if necessary, or use the stickers on your keys if you have one.
3. Prepare for the second measure. Make sure you've mastered the first measure before moving on. Now move your left pinky to the left, over to E (the next white key). Hold your right pinky on G. See the piano keys in the accompanying image.
4. Move your fingers to the notes D and B. Put your left pinkie on the D button, and your right pinkie on the B button, as shown in the accompanying image. This is the next part of the song and a bit more complex as you have to move both fingers at the same time. Take your time and practice.
5. Start from the beginning. Practice and repeat these four bars. Take it slow and split it up into parts where necessary. You will soon become familiar with it, as long as you don't rush.
6. Keep practicing! There are many more variations, so if you've learned this one well, you may want to consider trying it. Lots of fun!

Tips

• Practice and have patience - this is quite easy to learn quickly.
• What we call "Chopsticks" is original The Celebrated Chopsticks Waltz, written in 1877 by 16-year-old Euphemia Allen.,