The Scientific Guide to Piano Playing

Despite the dazzling artistry of acclaimed performers, too much of piano playing and teaching is undermined by half-truths and nonsense. We largely teach as we were taught, finding tradition easier than change, rendering pianism a discipline without discipline. Among the consequences are an epidemic of playing-related injuries and artistic frustration. The antidote is critical thinking and a close reading of the rapidly evolving body of relevant scientific knowledge, drawn from disciplines such as biomechanics and neuroscience.
This book is unique in its comprehensive focus on the science of both body and mind. Written by a pianist for pianists, it is a call to action for performers, teachers, students, healthcare professionals, allied researchers, music departments, and accrediting bodies. At long last, the piano world has the information needed to establish a unified theory of technique and to embrace neuro-pedagogies that can transform all we do.