Understanding the Three Piano Pedals and How to Use Them
Piano pedals are an essential part of a pianist’s toolkit, offering a wealth of expressive possibilities. While every piano has three pedals (on most modern models), their functions and uses are often misunderstood by beginners. Let’s demystify these three pedals and explore when and how to use them effectively.
1. The Sustain Pedal (Right Pedal)
The sustain pedal, located on the far right, is arguably the most commonly used and well-known pedal. When pressed, it lifts all the dampers off the strings, allowing the notes to continue vibrating even after the keys are released. This creates a sustained, resonant sound that is a hallmark of expressive piano playing.
When to Use It:
- Legato Passages: Use the sustain pedal to connect notes smoothly when they can’t be connected by fingers alone.
- Chords and Harmonies: Sustain pedal enhances the resonance of chords, making them sound fuller and richer.
- Emotional Impact: In lyrical or emotional pieces, the sustain pedal can create a lush, immersive sound.
Tips for Using the Sustain Pedal:
- Avoid over-pedaling, which can cause the sound to become muddy. Change the pedal (lift and re-press) when harmonies or chords change.
- Practice “half-pedaling” to achieve subtle control over the amount of sustain.
2. The Soft Pedal (Una Corda Pedal – Left Pedal)
The soft pedal, also known as the una corda pedal, is located on the far left. On grand pianos, it shifts the keyboard slightly to the right, causing the hammers to strike fewer strings (usually one instead of three). This produces a softer, more muted tone. On upright pianos, it moves the hammers closer to the strings, reducing their impact and softening the sound.
When to Use It:
- Quiet Dynamics: Use the soft pedal in pianissimo or soft passages to create a delicate, intimate sound.
- Color Variation: In some pieces, composers indicate una corda (literally “one string”) to achieve a specific tonal color.
- Accompaniment: When accompanying a solo instrument or voice, the soft pedal can help balance the dynamics.
Tips for Using the Soft Pedal:
- Be mindful of the difference in tonal quality, not just volume. The una corda pedal changes the character of the sound, which can be especially effective in certain musical styles.
- Experiment with how lightly or firmly you press the pedal to explore its nuances.
3. The Sostenuto Pedal (Middle Pedal)
The sostenuto pedal is the least understood and least used of the three. Found mainly on grand pianos and some uprights, it allows you to sustain specific notes or chords while leaving other notes unaffected. When pressed, the sostenuto pedal holds up only the dampers of the keys that are already depressed at that moment.
When to Use It:
- Selective Sustaining: Use the sostenuto pedal to sustain a bass note or chord while playing other notes staccato or detached.
- Complex Textures: It’s especially useful in advanced music with layered textures, such as works by Debussy or Ravel.
- Pedal Notation: Some composers specifically indicate its use in their scores.
Tips for Using the Sostenuto Pedal:
- Familiarize yourself with how it works, as it can be tricky to use at first.
- Look for opportunities to use it in repertoire where sustaining select notes adds clarity and texture.
General Pedaling Advice
- Listen Closely: Always let your ear guide your pedaling decisions. The goal is to enhance the music, not overpower it.
- Practice Slowly: Focus on coordinating your hands and feet, especially when using the sustain or sostenuto pedals.
- Follow Notation: Many composers provide specific pedal markings. While these can be a helpful guide, don’t be afraid to adjust them to suit your piano and the acoustics of the room.
Mastering the use of the three pedals can transform your piano playing, allowing you to express a wide range of emotions and colors. Whether you’re adding resonance with the sustain pedal, softening your sound with the una corda, or experimenting with the sostenuto pedal, each opens a new world of musical possibilities.