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The Musicarta Hanon

Mister Musicarta

4.8

Based on 14 ratings

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Mister Musicarta

The Hanon finger exercises have been helping pianists develop and maintain their finger technique for 150 years.

Now here's a video version that shows you how to play them, with sets of variations to develop your creative musical muscles and keep your practicing exciting and productive.

Watch the introductory video below, and try the first set for free.

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What's inside

Syllabus

The Original Hanon Exercises, Nos. 1 to 30

Introducing Hanon Exercise 1

How the Patterns Move

Hanon Exercises 1 to 5

Read more

Download the Shorthand Diagrams pdf in Resources and try to play the exercises from this pared-back resource from now on, relying on your memory and the 'contour' line diagrams.

Stretch your attention by combining one bar each of two exercises - for example, one bar of Exercise 1, then one bar of Exercise 2 and so on up and down the octave.

Your daily finger exercise practice offers a great opportunity to incorporate a methodical rhythmic component, and build up your syncopation skills.

There are two series - A-Z and AA.

Watch the introduction video to how the exercises work.

Knowing the Hanon exercises well provides an opportunity to develop critical keyboard skills other than simple dexterity.

Contrapuntal composing techniques like canons and fugues require the hands to be independent, so the second can play the same music starting a little later than the first.

This mini-series applies the delayed-start canon construction to the familiar Hanon exercises.

Knowing the Hanon exercises well provides an opportunity to develop critical keyboard skills other than simple dexterity.

Contrapuntal composing techniques like canons and fugues require the hands to be independent, so the second can play the same music starting a little later than the first.

This mini-series applies the delayed-start canon construction to the familiar Hanon exercises.

Only Exercises 1, 2 and 4 work with the left-hand delayed-entry version exactly the same as the right hand original. The rest require modification to a greater or lesser degree, as discussed in each instance.

The 'overlap' caused by the delayed entry of the left hand demands some attempt at a musical ending at the end of each half. The pupil should feel free to improvise his or her own.

These are the compiled PentHan 01-12-20 Exercises Nos.1-6 in C.

Download the MS for the exercises in C using the link in Resources. Note also that you can study these exercises on the linked web page (see Resources).

Watch the exercises repeatedly, one at a time, until you can identify the step/skip/repeat pattern it demonstrates before you attempt to play it.

These are the compiled PentHan 01-12-20 Exercises Nos.1-6 in C.

Note also that you can study these exercises on the linked web page (see Resources).

Watch the exercises repeatedly, one at a time, until you can identify the step/skip/repeat pattern it demonstrates before you attempt to play it.

These are the compiled PentHan 01-12-20 Mixed Pairs in C.

Download the MS and shorthand diagrams for these exercises using the link in Resources. Note also that you can study these exercises on the linked web page (see Resources).

For maximum benefit, study one exercise at a time until you can identify and play the step/skip/repeat pattern it demonstrates.

These are the compiled PentHan 01-12-20 Exercises Nos.1-6 in E flat.

Download the MS for the exercises in E flat using the link in Resources. Note also that you can study these exercises on the linked web page (see Resources).

For maximum benefit, study one exercise at a time until you can identify and play the step/skip/repeat pattern it demonstrates.

These are the compiled PentHan 01-12-20 Exercises Nos.7-12 in E flat.

Note that you can study these exercises on the linked web page (see Resources). For maximum benefit, study one exercise at a time until you can identify and play the step/skip/repeat pattern it demonstrates.

These are the compiled PentHan 01-12-20 'Mixed Pairs' exercises in E flat

Note that you can also study these exercises on the linked web page (see Resources).

For maximum benefit, study one exercise at a time until you can identify and play the step/skip/repeat pattern it demonstrates.

These are the compiled PentHan 01-12-20 Exercises Nos.1-6 in E.

Download the MS for the exercises in E using the link in Resources. Note also that you can study these exercises on the linked web page (see Resources).

For maximum benefit, study one exercise at a time until you can identify and play the step/skip/repeat pattern it demonstrates.

These are the compiled PentHan 01-12-20 Exercises Nos.7-12 in E.

Download the MS and shorthand diagrams for these exercises using the link in Resources. Note also that you can study these exercises on the linked web page (see Resources).

For maximum benefit, study one exercise at a time until you can identify and play the step/skip/repeat pattern it demonstrates.

These are the compiled PentHan 01-12-20 'Mixed Pairs' in E.

Download the MS and shorthand diagrams for these exercises using the link in Resources. Note also that you can study these exercises on the linked web page (see Resources).

For maximum benefit, study one exercise at a time until you can identify and play the step/skip/repeat pattern it demonstrates.

There are two videos to help you prepare for the playing-by-ear material.

Be sure to work conscientiously through both, to give yourself the best chance of profiting from the exercises!

Make sure you've absorbed the Catch-up/Orientation material (previous lesson) before you start these exercises!

The first six playing-by-ear video lessons are hosted on a single web page - see the link in Resources.

Download the 'in any key' notation for the whole of this section.

The playing-by-ear Exercises Nos.7-12 are hosted on their own web page. See the link in Resources!

The eight 'mixed pairs' playing-by-ear video/exercises are hosted on a separate web page - see the link in Resources.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Offers variations on the original Hanon exercises, which can help students develop creative musical skills alongside finger dexterity

Explores rhythmic variations of the Hanon exercises, which can build syncopation skills and provide a methodical approach to practice

Includes a section on playing Hanon exercises in sixths and tenths, which can open up a new dimension of sound for confident players

Features a 'Mind the Gap' series applying canon construction to Hanon exercises, which can develop independent hand coordination

Presents 'Pentatonic Hanon' exercises to improve improvisational dexterity and creativity, which may be useful for composing

Includes playing-by-ear exercises based on the Hanon exercises, which requires learners to have absorbed the catch-up orientation material

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Reviews summary

Hanon exercises with creative variations

According to learners, this course offers a unique approach to classic Hanon exercises by introducing a variety of creative variations.

Benefit depends on regular, dedicated effort.

"Like any technique course, the results depend entirely on putting in the daily practice."

"You really need to commit to doing these regularly to see significant improvement."

"It's effective, but you won't get results without consistent repetition and focus."

"Requires discipline, but worth it for the technical gains."

Well-explained lessons make exercises easy to follow.

"The videos are very clear and easy to follow. I can see exactly what to do."

"The explanations are concise and to the point, making it easy to understand the goal of each variation."

"The instructor's demonstrations are helpful in grasping the rhythm and feel."

"I appreciated the step-by-step guidance through the exercises."

Students note improved finger dexterity and control.

"My finger strength and independence have definitely improved since starting these exercises."

"I feel like I have much better control over my fingers now, especially the weaker ones."

"Consistent practice with these variations has noticeably improved my technique."

"This course has helped me build the necessary technical foundation for more complex pieces."

Goes beyond standard Hanon, adding musicality.

"The variations are brilliant! They make practicing Hanon much more engaging and musical than just repeating the same pattern."

"I love how this course takes the standard exercises and adds new rhythms and patterns. It really helps develop more than just finger strength."

"Using the variations helped me see how to apply these technical skills in a more creative way."

"It’s not just about speed, the variations add a much-needed musical dimension."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Musicarta Hanon with these activities:

Review Basic Piano Finger Exercises

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Reinforce fundamental finger dexterity and coordination before starting the Hanon exercises.

Browse courses on Finger Exercises

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Practice scales and arpeggios in all major and minor keys.
Focus on evenness of tone and consistent rhythm.
Use a metronome to maintain a steady tempo.

Review Alfred's Basic Piano Library - Lesson Book 1A

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Build a foundation in basic piano techniques, including finger placement and scales.

View Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course Lesson Book,... on Amazon

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Work through the lessons in the book systematically.
Pay attention to proper hand position and posture.
Practice each exercise until it can be played smoothly and accurately.

Practice Hanon Exercises 1-5 Daily

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Reinforce the finger independence and dexterity developed in the course.

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Set a metronome to a comfortable tempo.
Play each exercise slowly and deliberately, focusing on evenness of tone.
Gradually increase the tempo as proficiency improves.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Record and Analyze Your Hanon Practice

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Improve self-awareness and identify areas for improvement in your Hanon practice.

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Record yourself playing the Hanon exercises.
Listen back critically, paying attention to rhythm, tone, and accuracy.
Identify specific areas where improvement is needed.
Adjust your practice routine to address these areas.

Review 'The Complete Book of Scales, Chords, Arpeggios & Cadences'

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Gain a deeper understanding of the musical theory behind the Hanon exercises.

View Scales, Chords, Arpeggios & Cadences - Complete... on Amazon

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Study the scales, chords, and arpeggios related to the Hanon exercises.
Practice playing these elements in different keys and inversions.
Analyze how these elements are used in the Hanon exercises.

Compose a Short Piece Using Hanon Variations

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Apply the Hanon exercises and variations learned in the course to a creative musical project.

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Choose a Hanon exercise as a starting point.
Experiment with different variations, rhythms, and harmonies.
Compose a short piece that incorporates these variations.
Perform and record your composition.

Explore Advanced Piano Technique Tutorials

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Further develop piano technique beyond the scope of the Hanon exercises.

Show steps

Search for online tutorials on advanced piano techniques.
Focus on techniques such as scales, arpeggios, and ornamentation.
Practice these techniques regularly to improve your overall playing ability.

Career center

Learners who complete The Musicarta Hanon will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Pianist

A pianist captivates audiences with their musical skill. This course, centered on the Hanon finger exercises, helps build a foundation of finger technique, muscle memory, and dexterity. Pianists learn to play the Hanon exercises, and with the variations presented, creative muscles are developed. This course may be particularly helpful with segments like 'Hanon in Six-eight', which helps develop a new dimension of sound, and 'Rhythmic Variations - A-Z Series', which incorporates a methodical rhythmic component. Someone wishing to become a pianist may find that this course is an excellent introduction to the finger exercises that pianists have used for generations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pianist

Piano Teacher

A piano teacher guides aspiring musicians in their journey to learn and master the piano. The Musicarta Hanon course, designed to help pianists develop and maintain their finger technique, is key to improving as a piano teacher. The course helps one understand Hanon exercises, and the variations included can be incorporated into lessons. Learning these exercises helps an instructor develop their own creative approach to teaching. The 'Hanon with Held Thumbs' section may be useful for intermediate-level instruction. Learning the material in this course may prepare someone to become a piano teacher, providing a foundation in the finger exercises that pianists have used for generations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Piano Teacher

Accompanist

An accompanist provides musical support for other performers, such as singers or instrumentalists. The Musicarta Hanon course is a video version of Hanon finger exercises, and the goal of the exercises is to help pianists develop and maintain their finger technique. Because an accompanist must be able to adjust to other musicians, the course in general is helpful. Skills such as dexterity are always helpful, as are the course's sections on rhythmic variation. For someone interested in becoming an accompanist, this course may be a good entry point to the world of Hanon exercises.

See salaries and explore the career path for Accompanist

Session Musician

As a session musician, one is hired to play on recordings or live performances. The course on Hanon finger exercises is a video version that shows how to play them and includes sets of variations to develop creative musical muscles. This course may be useful in maintaining finger dexterity. One wishing to work as a session musician may find the 'Hanon in Sixths and Tenths' and 'Rhythmic Variations' sections to be helpful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Session Musician

Music Director

A music director oversees the musical aspects of a performance or production, often involving piano playing. The Musicarta Hanon course can help a music director to develop and maintain their finger technique. The variations included in the course can help a director develop creative musical muscles; one wishing to work as a music director may find the 'Hanon in Six-eight' and 'Rhythmic Variations' sections to be helpful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Director

Choir Director

A choir director leads and conducts a choir, often accompanying them on piano. This course, centered around the Hanon finger exercises, can help a choir director maintain and improve their finger technique. Because a choir director must be able to lead a group of people, the course in its totality may be helpful for improving as a choir director. The course may also be helpful in developing an understanding of rhythm. Learning the material in this course may help prepare someone to become a choir director.

See salaries and explore the career path for Choir Director

Organist

An organist plays the organ, often in religious services or concerts. The Musicarta Hanon course can help an organist to develop finger technique. The video version shows how to play exercises, and the variations included can help develop creative musical muscles. This course may be valuable, notably regarding the 'Rhythmic Variations' section.

See salaries and explore the career path for Organist

Arranger

An arranger adapts existing musical compositions for different instruments or ensembles. This course on Hanon finger exercises may help an arranger develop finger dexterity and technique. Arrangers work with other musicians to modify existing scores, and the course may be helpful in generating creative ideas. The 'Hanon in Six-eight' section may be especially useful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Arranger

Composer

A composer creates original musical pieces. The Musicarta Hanon course may help a composer develop finger technique. The video version shows how to play exercises, and the variations included can help develop creative musical muscles. The 'Hanon in Six-eight' section may be valuable.

See salaries and explore the career path for Composer

Music Therapist

A music therapist uses music to address clients' physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs. The Musicarta Hanon course may help a music therapist maintain their finger technique. The variations included in the course can help a therapist develop creative musical muscles. This course may be valuable, notably regarding rhythm.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Therapist

Sound Engineer

A sound engineer records, mixes, and masters audio. While this role is more technical than musical, understanding the nuances of piano playing from the Musicarta Hanon course may provide valuable insight. The course's lessons on playing by ear may be helpful. Learning this material may prepare someone to become a sound engineer by adding to their knowledge of music performance.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sound Engineer

Music Journalist

A music journalist writes about music-related topics, such as album reviews or artist profiles. While this role is writing-focused, understanding the technical aspects of piano playing from the Musicarta Hanon course may provide a deeper understanding of the music itself. The course's explorations of Hanon exercises and variations may be useful in appreciating the nuances of piano performance. Learning this material may prepare someone to become a music journalist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Journalist

Musical Instrument Retailer

A musical instrument retailer sells instruments and related equipment. The Musicarta Hanon course may provide a foundation for someone to better understand the nuances of playing piano. Because it is helpful to engage with customers on the topic of the piano, having a knowledge of Hanon exercises, as provided by this course, can enhance the customer's experience. Learning this material may prepare someone to work as a musical instrument retailer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Musical Instrument Retailer

Arts Administrator

An arts administrator manages the business and organizational aspects of arts organizations. While not directly related to playing, understanding the dedication required to master an instrument as detailed in The Musicarta Hanon course may provide valuable perspective. This knowledge, gained through the learning experience, might be helpful.

See salaries and explore the career path for Arts Administrator

Music Librarian

A music librarian catalogs and manages music collections. The Musicarta Hanon course may provide a deeper understanding of piano performance through the lesson plan including sets of variations to develop creative musical muscles. The video versions shows how to play them. One wishing to work as a Music Librarian may find this course beneficial.

See salaries and explore the career path for Music Librarian

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Musicarta Hanon.

Cover image

Cover image

Scales, Chords, Arpeggios & Cadences - Complete Book

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Provides a comprehensive overview of scales, chords, arpeggios, and cadences, which are essential for developing a strong musical foundation. It useful reference for understanding the underlying structure of music and how Hanon exercises relate to broader musical concepts. This book is valuable as additional reading and a reference tool.

Scales, Chords, Arpeggios & Cadences - Complete...

Cover image

Cover image

Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course Lesson Book,...

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Provides a solid foundation in basic piano techniques, including finger placement and scales. It is helpful for beginners who need to build a base level of piano proficiency. While not directly related to Hanon exercises, it provides the prerequisite skills. This book is commonly used as a textbook for beginner piano students.

Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course Lesson Book, Bk 1...

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Rating

4.8

Effort

6 total hours

Via

Udemy

Instructor

Mister Musicarta

Language

English

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Offers variations on the original Hanon exercises, which can help students develop creative musical skills alongside finger dexterity

Explores rhythmic variations of the Hanon exercises, which can build syncopation skills and provide a methodical approach to practice

Includes a section on playing Hanon exercises in sixths and tenths, which can open up a new dimension of sound for confident players

Features a 'Mind the Gap' series applying canon construction to Hanon exercises, which can develop independent hand coordination

Presents 'Pentatonic Hanon' exercises to improve improvisational dexterity and creativity, which may be useful for composing

Includes playing-by-ear exercises based on the Hanon exercises, which requires learners to have absorbed the catch-up orientation material

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