Please feel free to add any comment, suggestion, or feedback that you feel could help me develop the product further. I am looking forward to seeing what you have to say! This is a brand new product, released April 16th, 2010.
This is a compilation of proven exercises that I have given to individual students on an as needed basis over the years to help with particular challenges. It is exciting to be able to finally put them together in an organized manner and give you access to all of it. I would love to add more or polish up on what I have, or whatever suggestions you might have to offer.
Comments won’t show up immediately. Due to spam, I have this set up so that I have to approve the comments before they appear online, so hang tight after you submit. I will check the comments three times a day and approve any new ones.
142 Responses
Hi Lisa,
Just started some of the exercises after purchasing the program. I was just wondering, do you recommend the use of the metronome in going through these exercises and if so, do you have some recommended speeds to begin with and to aspire to?
Using the metronome for any of the exercises is an excellent idea as long as you are enjoying it and it does not frustrate you. If you view the metronome videos, you can establish a “feel” for how to use the metronome.
The metronome can be thought of as a game, where you have to get to the next level by playing perfectly at a slow tempo, then increase it just a little bit and play at the new speed perfectly before increasing it again.
Tempo recommendations would be to start as slow as you are comfortable with, and add tempo in very small increments.
Lisa,
I just got to these tonite, before going to a Pacific Symphony concert, so I haven’t yet had much time with them.
As a housekeeping item, I noted a filename error: Rhythm Busters 6 Filename error – named as _1.1mov
Rename to _6.mov
Impressions:
I’d like to see more structure. It will be too tempting to do the easy ones and skip the hard, especially after your suggestion do the ones I enjoy.
Questions:
Should these be done as 10-minute-a-day practice or as warm ups for the other lessons? Or is there a better method for these exercises?
How important is hand/wrist position to success in these exercises. I’m never sure about my wrists, and watching concert pianists is confusing as they are all over the place.
I’ll be burning these to DVD since my keyboard and computer are in different rooms. There should be a DVD option in the final product
More as I have achance to work with thses.
Alan
Alan, this is exactly the types of feedback I am looking for, along with of course as you use the videos how they are working for you. Thank you.
The videos are in categories of targeted needs, so if you are working on a song that is challenging you in one of the categories, you can choose 1 or 2 to work on prior to practicing that particular song.
If you want to improve everything in general, I would work on Finger Fitness first, then Finger Twisters, and always work on Scales…. hmmm, as I am writing this reply, I see what you mean about structure. Give me some time and I will post something on the download page on some different ways these can be used. Thank you!
The video file on Finger Twister #3 seem to be incomplete.
It might just be that my computer didn’t download it completely.
Finger Twister #3 is incomplete
Rhythm Busters 6 Filename error – named as _1.1mov
Tried to rename it still can’t get it
Hi Lisa
thank you for choosing me to try the bootcamp I love it. I am a beginner for 2 years now and was a bit lost for a while with the practice I can see that these lessons will be excellent for me these are the building blocks I am missing and due to family time and not a lot of practice time these will be great for me. I like the fact that I will be able to view your hands as guidance on the piano and I think I will choose one exercise from each group for 2 weeks practice to get me back into the swing of things. It looks great thanks
Hi Lisa,
love the product so far, thank you. My couple of bits of feedback
1. like couple of others here noting the issue with rhythm_busters_1.1.mov – as well as file name inconsistency (which isn’t such a big deal) seems to be an invalid file as it wouldn’t download
2. only really worked on the first couple of finger fitness vids so far. With those it would be really great if at the end you gave a demo playing the exercise at the speed it should be able to be done to have mastered it.
thanks again.
I tried the 1st exercise in Finger Fitness and Finger Twisters. My fingers told we were doing things they have never done before. This is really going to help using my fingers but also using both hands together. I think this will be a great help when you don’t have a live instructor sitting next to you on the piano bench.
Well Lisa I thought I had better drop you a note to let you know that I’m absolutely thrilled with your new program ” Boot Camp for Clumsy Fingers”.
I sort of lost interest in trying to learn more advanced piano playing because of a lack of instruction on learning how to make both hands work together,which has been the biggest obsticle I have encountered since starting your course some 3 years ago.I can play some advances tunes,through memorizing the song but still have a lot of trouble making my left hand co-operate with the right,especially when learning a new song from scratch.
Your new course,I believe, is the answer to this difficult problem and I look forward to practising again as I had really lost interest in the same old practise routines that were getting me nowhere so once again you have done it,I’m back in the learning groove.
Thanks again.
Wayne
These seem to be just what I need. Since I have arthritis in my left hand (thumb mostly), can you give some options on fingering exercises?
Hi Lisa,
I have jumped straight to the metronome for my first try at the video’s. I’m not sure if I missed it in your speech but I’m thinking the metronome has been set at 4/4. Just wondering if that might need to be mentioned on each video or put in the link title. Otherwise I found this set of video’s easy to follow.
Di
Hi Lisa
Over the last year or so of learning the piano I have found that video lessons are by far the easiest and most effective way to learn.
However, on a day to day basis I prefer to use sheet music for warm-ups, exercises and drills.
So, can you make sheet music or maybe some cheat sheets available for the boot camp exercises?
Cheers, Steve
Hi Lisa,
I haven’t seen much of the training. They seem to take forever to download, and then I give up. Can you suggest anything?
I have downloaded all lesson vid recieved.
everyrthing nice and smooth.
I think got my hands full for a good while. only had one small detail with one lesson which I sending back for you to check..
Thank you, JaimeI
Hi Lisa, thank you for the opportunity to get a copy of the clumsy fingers video. They are very interesting and useful to me, especially as a first year student. However, I am having problems downloading them. Sometimes they take very long and at times they do not download at all. Suggestion?
Thanks
Lisa,
I tested the flash version of the video on Firefox 3.6 and Internet Explorer 8 32 and 64 bit versions. It ran fine on the Firefox and the 32 bit Internet Explorer. There is an issue with Flash player on the 64 bit version. SO it won’t work there. I’ll try it on Safari a little later and let you know.
Alan
Hi Lisa,
I just received your notice that you are going to be using another format (Flash) to publish your videos. I am hoping that your intention is to publish using Flash in ADDITION to QuickTime. Reason being: I transfer your QuickTime videos to my iPhone so that I can view them at my piano which is in another room and the iPhone does not support the Flash video format!
Thanks
I am not removing the Quicktime option, though in future releases, I won’t be including it. I will continue to provide all videos downloadable in quicktime format for the next year to those who are getting in on this pre-release offer.
Hi Lisa,
I am so glad you chose me to try the Clumsy Piano Fingers Lessons. I had become frustrated with trying to coordinate both hands and this is exactly what I needed. The problem wais the slow download of the videos in the format you currently have them. However, I received your email today with the new test link and it works much better. The other format was not displaying start, stop or pause controls. The new format displays them. I was also having problems downloading and saving the videos to my computer. Hopefully, the new format will allow me to download and save them.
Thank you for all your hard work in making piano playing such a wonderful learning experience.
Maritza
Hi Lisa.
I have received everything,except that I cannot see the videos..Before ordering,I followed your instructions and downloaded Quicktime player.I was able to view the video that was demonstrated.I am also able to view the one given with the new link.I will keep trying
Neville
Hi Lisa, I just tried my first video after having successful watched the two test videos and looks like I’m having problems. I tried starting the first one (the first on metronomes) about 5 times and it kept stopping. It’s late so I’ll try tomorrow when I have more time and patience. I’m using Firefox but could try Internet Explorer. Funny that the test videos worked though. Oh well, another day.
Use Internet Explorer. Firefox doesn’t work well for me.
Hi Lisa,
First of all, may I say that I am so impressed with your programme — I have been a member for only 3.5 months now – but I can play a few of my favourite songs.
As I learn, I found that the other resources – (audio and videos) that come as extras to main programme are so so useful in my learning I am so glad that you created these “clumsy fingers” videos
Now then, I have tried out a few and they seem to be working fine for me. However, as there are so many of them, I’m not quite sure where to begin, or which video will be useful for which song at a glance….
So can I just suggest… maybe besides each video you can mention whether they are for general practice; or if they can be related to a particular chapter/sub-chapter of the learn piano online programme; or maybe example of songs that will require such skill…. and also if it’s better to master one item before the other…
That’s all Lisa… once again thank you so much for what you are doing here 🙂
Hi Lisa!
Well, everything is fine with me. I tried it first with Quicktime and it worked fine on my computer. Then, I tried Flash just to see if it is ok and it is again fine for me.
I did incorporate one exercise at the time of my practice with fingers (before practicing the songs). I will add one more each 3 to 4 days. Thanks again for letting me having those exercises, it happened at a time of frustration as the songs are more and more complexes! (I am in lesson 8)
Thanks Lisa
I have viewed Video #1 and although I know both hands at once is going to be hard I will get it right before going further. Thanks for your good explanation and will keep you informed.
Verda
For a long time now, i’ve been dying to learn more on playing the piano, and so far, purchasing your boot camp was my biggest step ever. I made a few test and everything’s working fine with me. I like the videos, and the explanations are really easy to understand.. now all i need now is time =) Thanks u very much Ms Liza ^_^
Lisa,
Thanks for this invaluable addition to your website.It is just what the doctor ordered.
I would support Reply #9 above from Steven Ludman on the basis that the availability of sheet music for these various exercises would also enhance one’s sheet reading skill. It also would reinforce the learning process.
In my opinion,the most recent Flash version is definitely superior to the QuickTime approach.
Another consideration may be to attempt playing each exercise perfectly three (3) times through before moving on to the next exercise. A mistake at any point in the sequence would require the count to begin over from the beginning. This would also be beneficial for any of the lesson material.
Wow Lisa!! Just done a preliminary run through of this new wonder and I am just so impressed! What a huge amount of work you have put into this, if this doesn’t get me back onto my piano, nothing will!!!! Thank you so much, I love it. Jean.
I just tried the Flash Player version and it works great (even with Firefox browser) so I am a happy boot camper! I too struggle with both hands but love to practice so these videos will be great motivation for me. I am a beginner and easily frustrated and this is a welcome addition to the lessons. Now I must review and get back on the piano practice wagon!
Lisa,
This is great! I have a Mac, and both the QuickTime and Flash Player work flawlessly for me. I am very grateful for this addition to my membership. I had certainly hit a slump in my practice recently. I am thrilled each time you post new material, it gives me renewed interest in getting back to my practicing. I seem to be so impatient, only wanting to learn a new “real song” such as the recent classical, Moonlight Sonata, or the last couple of Instant Play songs. So, it is hard to make myself practice technique or fingering, which I certainly need to do. Now, with the videos, it is more like you sitting here on my piano bench with me, encouraging me and prodding me to practice what I need, not only what I want. Thank you for doing just what I needed, just when I needed it!
Karen
Hi Lisa
I had a look at the “Scales Fingering” videos and have a suggestion regarding the B Major scale.
I’ve been using a different fingering for the left hand that is much easier than crossing the thumb to a black key.
Fingering is as follows:
RH 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5
B C# D# E F# G# A# B
LH 4 3 2 1 4 3 2 1
Cheers, Steve
I have looked at the first seven in order and the flash files work quickly. The file size seems to be smaller than the quicktime which work but is slow on windows xp service pack 3. I was wondering if the file size could be in backets next to the files as I need to watch my download limit, it is quickly approaching. The videos are helpful and will help with finger fad on songs like the Moonlight Sonata.
in the interval exercise “chopsticks” you mention the full chopstick exercise is in the bonus video
as at today 23rd april have not seen the bonus video
have you sent it out yet?
In the beta release info, I mention that the bonus videos will be released when they are completed.. about 3 weeks from now.
Stay tuned to more changes, and a change of download location as well.
I am wondering were i go to get download. I have purchased the program now i need the download i have the quick player. I have just been watching from here on my computer but i have non downloaded.
The download is the quicktime link. After you download to your computer, you will open with quicktime.
To aid in understanding and use, I recommend the following to help get started.
(A). Add Numbers and change sequence of each exercise to be consistant with initial overview such as:
1.0 Finger Fitness
2.0 Finger Twisters
3.0 Scales and Fingering
4.0 Inversions of Chords
5 .0 etc.
(B) In the first (or all) videos in each exercise, you may want to first give a full demo, then go thru the steps the reach this goal.
(C) The addition of sheet music may bring the total package together.
Thanks for your hard work and looking forward to piano progress.
Hi Lisa: Just wanted to let you know I can now open with Quick Time & Flash Player, but Flash Player is much faster, so I like it much better. Been going through the finger exercises, and I really can feel them even though I have been playing for a long while. So I know they will help with speed and endurance.
Hi Lisa: I purchased your lessons about a year ago but have not done much. However, I am planning to start again in June. I travel a lot and I do not have a piano available when I am out of town. But I saw your offer and it is very attractive, so I took it. My question is – Do I have this page available at all times or would you be erasing/changing over time. I have saved all the lessons you e-mailed me in the pass hoping to be alble to get to them sometime in the future. I think that your program is great and I have recommended it to a few friends of mine. Thank you.
Hi Lisa, thanks for the opportunity to get this new program.
I agree with nr. 2 under C (Hamlin) the addition of a sheetmusic ,cause I want to see what I play, normally you do that , and… my piano is in the livingroom and my comp. is in the bedroom (I have no keyboard but an accoust piano)
I,m very glad that you use flash player too because the quick time version makes me crazy and give me high blood pressure.I don’t have so much pacience.
A sheet music option will be considered down the road. The initial thought was to provide something easy and stress free to use. Reading sheet music, rather
than memorizing a pattern might take some benefit away such as improving memorization. However, I see that it could offer some value in that you could refer
to it faster than watching a video. Believe it or not, producing the sheet music is much more time consuming than producing the video, so it might change
the cost of the series, or might be an option to purchase for those who would like to have it. I am just thinking out loud here. Any further comments and suggestions are of course more than welcome.
Thanks Lisa for these awesome new videos. I have started with the finger fitness and so far so good. Finger twister #1 was cool. I have to show it to my daughter since she is taking formal piano classes (30 min) a week.
Decide.Commit. Succeed.
Fantastic.
Hello Lisa
The Videos are a brilliant idea.
I have been a bit busy at the moment, so I have only had a quick look, but they will be very useful for future reference.
It would be a good idea to start each video with a playthrough of the exercise once at a steady tempo, so it shows the intended result,then you can break each exercise down. Sometimes it can be very useful simply to listen to and watch the play through to get the correct concept into your head.
Regards
Peter de Wit
I’m happy to have access to the new videos. While, I haven’t spent a great deal of time with them, I do enjoy the ones I have used. Thank you for this improvement to my lessons.
Hi Lisa,
The clumsy fingers videos are great! My left hand is FINALLY starting to remember to do what I want it to do. It will take me awhile to get thru all of the videos, but I’ve noticed that those songs that I am able to play are sounding much more fluid.
Thanks for all of your hard work.
Ken
Just letting you know that the test video you sent on 30 Apr 2010 works fine on my computer.
Hi Lisa,
The replay is instant and works great. My only suggestion is that you reshoot any videos where you make a mistake in what you’re saying cause to me it breaks my flow in concentration when you have to correct something you said or showed. Just re-shoot it until it’s correct. Thank you.
Hi! Lisa!
I just tried the new video of the “chopstick” and it worked fine for me on my computer.
Thanks again!
Although I have not had any trouble downloading or playiny the videos,this new one did load and reload faster than past ones. Thanks for the opportunity for being a part of this program.
The new video works perfectly, and it’s fun doing chopsticks! Haven’t heard that it a long time. Keep up the good work.
Hi
I just download all the videos and never reproduce them online. For people like me it would be nice to receive notifications of updates.
Sorry for taking so long giving you my feedback. I’m very pleased with how well everything is working on this web site. Thanks for the most latest improvements, this will be most beneficial.
Hi Lisa,
I have been working with these videos’ a bit. Sorry i have not commented yet because I have been working long hours and weekends.
What I have seen, I love and they seem to be working fine and getting better. I have no problems with them so far.
I plan to put in more time and think about this over this weekend as I can.
This new video you sent today works fine. I had no problem and it came up fast.
Keep up the good work, I know it has to be helpling those struggling with clumsy fingers.
Thanks again, Bernie
Lisa,
Video loaded very quickly for me, direct. I couldn’t use the pause button, and the only download available was via the real player.
My preference was to have the video’s downloadable to my hard drive.
I’m sure that is still available, but you asked for feedback:)
brendan
This is actually not a brand new video, the quicktime download is in the Interval Training section. I have it up on top for testing purposes.
For everyone: When I do another release, the new membership page will not allow downloading of videos, but your current beta “ugly” page will remain active
only for beta members, and I will continue to add all videos in downloadable format there, for a year, as promised on the promo. Just wanted to
let you all know, that the downloading of the videos is a special bonus, and won’t be offered in future releases.
The lessons download fine. However, because I cannot transport my monitor to the piano, the only way I can make use of the lessons is to copy (longhand). This works out great on repeated sequences, but useless on those that are not, i.e. “Chopsticks”. Accompanying sheet music would be great in my case but presumably difficult for you to produce.
I did check it out and it is very easy to follow, quick upload as well, I need to get back into it, I have been very slack lately.
Hi Lisa,
Sorry so late in responding. I am traveling in motor home and my internet is not fast enough to view the lessons. I will be home on Tuesday and can then give it my best. I am sure it is going to be great. In the lifetime lessons there was no problem with the downloads.
Thanks for all the hard work,
Judy N.
Hi,
Lisa, I also wanted to tell you I purchased a laptop keyboard to use in the motor home when away from my piano. It is small and probably a toy for a child but is does have a good sound and does not take up too much room. It is great as I can practice while my husband is driving down the road. lol
It keeps me from not getting to practice my keys while on the road.
Hi Lisa, The test video works fine.
I’m a brand new (3 mo.) pianist/keyboardist. I’ve done the book work so I can read (fake books) and play (slowly) melody. I can work out the mechanics of any scale and chord (there’s about 250+ if you count major, minor, sus., dim., aug., 7ths, 9ths, 13ths). I do the practice you suggest but I NEED to play something real. Could you please pick out a slow ballad like Autumn leaves or something like that and show us how you work in the chords with the melody. Incorporating broken, block and arpeggio chords.
I like your videos, I like the fact that the’re not too slick and polished. It feels like your at my keyboard and I’m looking over your shoulder.
Thanks
Norm
Lisa,
I’m really excited about the videos. They are getting me back to the piano. We are on satelite internet, which can be slower at times, but the videos loaded fine. The chop sticks video loaded very quick, maybe 10 seconds the first time and then 3 seconds afterward.
Thanks so much for your hard work.
Ava
Re: update 4/30/10 (chopsticks)
Please test this video.
Lisa
The video works great and comes trough very clear, you might want to review the end, where I think you hesitate a bit as if you are not sure. I think the program, works very well, keep up the good work.
Stan
Hey Lisa,
here is my feedback. So far i haven’t had any trouble viewing these videos and the ‘chopsticks video’ works fine for me too-the replay is immediate.
I also have a question for you and some info that i’d like to share with my fellow students. I have no idea if this info is important, but maybe it will help some students who struggle with their clumsy fingers. I’ve been studying with Lisa for two years now and every time i sat down to piano i had clumsy fingers, and the keyboard was often a bit intimidating (even at Level 3, i’m at Level 4 now). 6 months ago i started with fitness workouts-lots of body training and a bit of weights for my arms. Suddenly my piano playing improved A LOT-without additional piano finger practice, my hands were pretty confident, i wasn’t feeling all shaky and my sound was better. I realized that being physically fit can improve my piano playing and sound.
And a question for you, Lisa. Lately I’ve been noticing some stiff muscles and wrist pain after my piano practice. I’m afraid that i might be doing sth wrong, and i really don’t want to damage my muscles. It would be absolutely great if you could add a little chapter or video on posture here- and how to sit properly at piano and what sort of movement to avoid so that we don’t get sore muscles, stiff neck/shoulder area and wrist pain.
Keep up the good work! I’m sending lots of love and april sun from Slovenia!
Thanks,
Tanja
Hi Lisa,
I have had no problem of late with the videos.When you first put out the program the videos were slow to load but they all have worked just great.
I am impressed with these exercises as I think they will really help me get over the problem of left hand unco-operation with the right hand.
The lastest video you sent for a “test run” worked great for me. Pause worked and reloaded with no problem.
I’ve had to take a small vacation from the boot camp/lessons but will be back very soon!
You are a wonderful teacher.
Diane in NH
I’ve been working on the first two exercises and the first twister and I am very impressed with the videos and the general presentation.
What I would suggest, though, is a bit more direction on how to proceed through the various exercises. There is a ton of material in the program so, it would be helpful if you presented all this material in the format of a program…direction on how to work through all this material.
Hi Lisa,
The latest video works great and a lot faster. Thank you and congratulations on the new improvement of speed. However, I can only use the Flash Player option and the Quick time still does not work on my laptop.
Hello Lisa,
my laptop is an old friend with very old OS and browser (Mac OS 10.3.9 – Firefox 2.0) but the video has given me no problem at all. No issues with buffering and the quality is great. Patiently waiting for the next in the series 😉
= Uwe =
Hi Lisa,
The quicktime player still doess not work for me,but,your adding the flash player link,has helped consderably,and now I have access to the exercises.I must also inform you that tthe new trial video has worked superbly and I am now hoping that you would allow us the same facility with the “clumsy finger”videos
I thank you for your dvotion and dedication.
Neville
I think you are doin agreat job. I cannot complain about not having plenty to learn.
You are keeping me busy. thank you for your efforts.
Maybe someday i will be a piano player.
forgot to mention in my feedback I never did find bonus chopsticks song.. thank you
bye
Hi Lisa:
Just watched the Chopticks. It is fun. I like practice techniques with familiar songs. Please put in more of those if you can. I can view the videos without any problem. I agree with other students about having a program put together with suggestions on in what order to view the videos.
Lisa,
The video worked well on my laptop. One of the suggestions I would make that would be helpful for me would be to have the clumsy fingers series available in sheet music. To me it is kind of a pain to have to keep replaying the video to figure out the song. A format like your lesson plans would be great.
Thanks and I am enjoying your lessons. I started your lessons at Christmas and am now on chapter 7.
David R.
Hi Lisa,
had no promblem at all with the down load and the play back is just great all I have to do now is practise thank you for the chance to learn to play the piano.
thank you
jeffrey hayes
Hi Lisa – here is my feedback.
I am very impressed with your programme — I have been a member for some time now – and have at the same time also got some practits from my locale pianoteacher with playing piano. Now for about to years.
I have still some problem with playing and reading notes for boat hands at the same time and special to keep the rythem and counting
Your program seem with piano excersises to help about this
So I see forward to know the rest of the exesises you made
Hi Lisa sorry for the delay. I have been using Clumbsy Fingers for a week now.
I too would like to see some sheet music.
The video’s are perfect and very clear and have no problems elsewhere. You are a wonderful teacher. Keep up the good work.
Lisa,
How do you download? Not computer savvy
Thanks,
Hi Lisa
I’ve just had a look at the new video, it plays smoothly and replays quickly – I had a minor problem with Firefox though – it shows some extra scroll bars over the video if I point my mouse at the control bar – no problems with Internet Explorer.
I also had a look at the difference between the quicktime files and the corresponding flash files – while the flash file loaded quicker its quality is poor in comparison to the quicktime file. I presume this is due to the lower resolution and smaller size of the flash format.
I definitely prefer the quicktime files! Being able to download the quicktime file is a big plus for me as I spend a lot of time travelling without an internet connection. I also have a media player attached to my TV right next to the piano, so I can play your videos on it and practice at the same time.
I don’t mind paying a little extra for the quicktime files – maybe you can bundle them up on a DVD…
Cheers! Steve
There seems to be a lot of other people asking for sheet music – I know this is a time consuming task 🙂
Perhaps some of us can help? I’m happy to offer my services.
Cheers
Hi Lisa,
Both Quicktime and Flash work fine on my Mac. This Bootcamp thing has got me re-inspired to get back to trying to learn to play. It has helped me to understand some of the basics that I was struggling with in your regular lessons. Quite frankly, I will never be a good piano player. I am in my 70’s, my fingers are kind of crooked, and all I really want to do is be able to play some boogie and blues and enjoy myself. Thanks for including me in this offer.
Hi Lisa: I reviewing the video on Chopsticks. I think its a lot of fun, however, looking forward to the Bonus Chopsticks when its ready. The exercises are good, I’ve gone over most of them, they work very well. Chopsticks is fine and more like it would be good. Sounds great, easy to understand, different approach refreshing instead of the two finger most know. Personally, my fingers are getting sore. Maybe we all could use something (a little less pounding) on the fingers for a change. : ) You might want to show everyone the drop and press technique. Its great. Keep truckin !
Hi, Lisa,
This video loaded quickly, the replay was instant. I’m enjoying these exercises, but haven’t done many of them yet. On this one you say to emphasize the first and third beat but you emphasize the first and fourth. I know this is nit-picky,but thought you’d want to know.
HI Lisa,
Ok, so I just looked at the test video and I really like it. I can watch it through and then I can instantly watch it over again. If I want to review something that is in the middle I can go there over and over without the wait of the download and having to watch the whole video again.
Dear Lisa,
I have not had a chance to experiment much with the Boot Camp videos due to a busy work/school schedule. I have mainly been working on “Moonlight Sonata” from the Classical Club. I had no problems at all with the test video and you were right, this is a fun little exercise for intervals. I’m not very good at studying any subject by myself without very thorough instructions. Some specific instructions would be helpful in navigating through the Boot Camp series. Is there a way to intersperse them with the regular piano course curriculum. You could say, for example, “As a supplement to Lesson 8, the following drills from the Boot Camp series will reinforce and support this lesson.” I love your piano lessons and although I get frustrated (mainly because I can’t find the time to practice), I am sticking with the program as written. Thanks for all your guidance in the lessons. I hope to add some of my playing to the sharing part of the website soon!
Peace and Hugs,
Jeff Ramos
Hi Lisa,
Thank you for give us the opportunity to exorcise our finger s with the Boot Camp videos. I have been practice some exorcises for a week now, and I experience more flexibility in my fingers, especially my left hand. Thank to Clumsy Piano finger, I am getting back in to my lessons again, because I was very frustrated.
My feedback is, that since the beginning I learned to read notes and I am missing the music’s sheet, I am not used to memorize notes and some time I have to watch the video many time.
Thank you very much; I am agreeing with all, you are a Great Teacher!
Carmen Rodriguez
I had no problems with the test video. It was fun to play too.
It is so good to be able to see you play and to be able to go to the piano and then come back to see if what I have played sounds like yours.
The optimised video played well and replayed instantly. It took a long time to load the first time but I suspect that has more to do with my connection problems than anything else.
Thanks for these videos they are very good and useful.
The new video method works great. I am really enjoying this and it makes me do things on the piano I never thought of. This is working very good at getting my hands to work at different speeds. There is still a chance I will know how to play piano. Clumsy fingers is a outstanding addition to the course.
Hi Lisa: Quick Time works, but is very slow. Flash player works great. These exercises are very beneficial. I can feel improvement in my finger strength already, when I play a piece called Elf Dance where it calls for precise and quick movement. I think these exercises are going to help a great deal. I enjoyed your Chop Sticks video and again it calls for precise movement and finger strength, and playing it will help to develop that also. I can’t wait for the full version of it. This is a huge undertaking for you; you are doing a great job, keep truckin ! Your efforts are appreciated.
This video system works well I can drag the progress marker to any position and replay any part without delay. I will try more of the other videos.
Hi Lisa
The video works a treat, I find the Flash video to be lot faster and more responsive than the first Quicktime video which took forever to download.
As yet I’ve only tried, Finger Fitness and Finger Twisters but had no problems.
Many thanks for all your teaching methods, I never thought I’d be able to play the piano quite so well, without having piano lessons which as you know would be more time consuming and costly.
Good luck with this new product.
David
hi lisa
love your video,s at last my left hand is doing what its supposed to do ,sorry have taken longer to give you my comments but had a bit of trouble down loading them, but its all good ,i havei am enjoying your lesson also finger exercises, look forward to your next video
regards fay
I think this course is great. My keyboard is in a different room from my computer so I agree with the suggestions gone before that sheet music would be of benefit. So far I have just practiced the finger fitness and twister. The new video replay works very well for me, on Quicktime. I cannot download Flash what ever I try to do. Thanks again Lisa. Kath
Morning Lisa, I am at the end of lesson 9 got to measure 9 in the classical music & wadding through the clumsy fingers. But like some other students cannot get or see common piano jingles or find bonus fingers. How do i do it. Best Regards Joyce in GA
All Clumsy Finger Users.. the bonuses that were mentioned on the invitation to participate are still in process of being completed. When I release them, you will receive an email with the announcement. I know you are anxious for them.. I am excited to get them out to you as well! ~smile~
I refer to “Chopsticks’ as an exercise. Not only does one practises the use of his fingers properly but the fact is that he will finally learn a song as well. I find it stimulating. Also your teaching is always clear and encouraging. Your fingers can be seen clearly on the keys of the piano. I believe you are a very patient teacher.
Am now practising Finger Fitness 1, Finger Twister 1, Rhythm Busters 1, Reaching out of Range 1 faithfully. Will learn more as time goes on.
I am now only 7 months into learning the piano.
Hello Lisa, the video you put up yesterday (30 April) worked perfectly and the replay was instant. I use the flashplayer and all the videos (finger fitness/twister/ handcontrol etc) work perfectly. Am finding them really helpful and ejoyable. Thank you very much. Elaine
Dear Lisa,
Sorry that I didn’t give feedback. I was and am very busy with the Clumsy Fingers exercises. It works good in receiving your playing and your comment.
Every day I am working on it and hope so to make my fingers a little faster. I enjoy your lessons. Thank you so much.
Martin
I had a lot of fun with chopsticks and I remember the day, was it 2 years ago, When Kaiya was brought into your world of music. I thought to myself, when I saw her seated at the piano, if that cute little girl is going to play Etude and better than I do I was going to give up.
I especially enjoyed her great grandmother seated at the piano.. She is just 2 years older than I and I will be interested in her progress.
As far as my lending any assistance to your hours of hard work and wonderful lessons by offering suggestions, I can’t think of anything that would help.. Thank you for your reply to my question about numbering the notes on the music sheet. Made sense to me
Hi Lisa,
I am really impressed with the effort you have put to bring out such a wonderful course/lessons. I have not seen such an output coming out of any other piano learning program, I have come across.
I had few thoughts, while going through the videos shared, please take them along with the best knowledge you have, if this benefits all, and fits into your idea of this course. Here are those:
/************************/
1. Could there be finger exercises where the following can be practised:
– Every Good Boy Does Fine
– FACE
Basically, to play these what fingers to use?
2. Most exercises are on whites (natural scale). Can you pl add some finger exercises with
flats and sharps as well?
3. Can we have some exercises with respect to chord progressions? Standard Chord
progressions ? (Out_of_range_3.mov is one of the examples)
There was one in “chords_switching.mov”. Some more with other standard chords progression
would be of help.
4. While working on ‘out-of-range’ categpry, can there be a set of finger exercise(s), which
will have a sequence of 4 notes or so, playing on higher octave (say octave 5), and then on
octave 4, then octave 3, and complete it on octave 2.
For example: FEDC (On octave 5, then on octave 4, …)
Something similar to “chords_arpeggios.mov”.
5. I noticed, that while playing “F-scale”, while playing “A#”, 4th finger has to stretch a
lot. But this is comfortable, if one plays “F, G, A,” with fingers placed closer to black
notes. Thought I will share this with others also, who might be experiencing the same
difficulty, but your video clarifies this, since you are playing with finger placement on
white notes a little higher closer to black notes.
However Lisa, is there any recommendation/guideline/practice, which helps us know, when to
play Piano with our fingers placed little higher, closer to black keys?
/************************/
Regards,
Nitin
Hi Lisa,
This comment is with respect to the recent link you added on 30-Apr-10: “Need Your Feedback on Recently Added Video”.
I checked this works fine perfectly, starting the time it started downloading, and when the download completes, then it is very quick to access it the 2nd time, I would like it to replay.
But personally, I feel comfortable to take these lessons in my smartphone where I carry these videos in “.mov” (movie format) and carry to the music room, where Adityaa (my 6 years old son) and myself practice on our keyboards. 🙂
I still continue to use the downloaded .mov formats.
Although as feedback on the approach you shared, I tested and it works fine.
Regards,
Nitin
Hi Lisa,Iam very much impressed with your lessons and also the new programme.First I have gone through all the videos and very much excited to watch Fun with Arpeggions ,switching chords and what not….. each session is really a helping hand.
My liking for keyboard started years back and after joining your course only could understand the BASICS related to playing the piano. Iam sure this new Programme will help me a lot to improve my calibre as a student of Piano class.Thanking you and God bless you.
Hi Lisa,
I would join in with comments #37 and 51 above and suggest that you reshoot this video in its final version.
Also, please consider the presetation of “Clumsy Fingers” as a structured program related to a work in progress, namely, the lessons.
It’s good to see that your grandma is still at work on the keyboard—with your granddaughter not far behind.
You are doing a fabulous job for all of us. Thank you very much.
Dear Miss Lisa
Thank you for the videos and lessons for clumsy fingers. It adds interest and motivation. The practical examples, with you right there demonstrating the finger movements, also gives me confidence and I have no second guessing going on. The fact that you give me such a wide choice of finger excercises encourages me to practise more. It is an advantage to learn to play and practise in this way and allows the repeating of the lessons where necessary. It works well for me. Thank you for the tips as well. I am having fun and find your lessons most enjoyable!
Kind Regards,
Mari
Dear Lisa,
I didnt have enough time to practice but my first opinion is your training fingers programme is extremely helpfull.
Shall we have some tips for small area tricks like Mozart, and large area tricks like Liszt.
Thank you very much for your efforts.
Orhan
Lisa, Thank you for the email–it prompts me to practice every time I see an email from you!
The test video worked great for me. When I can’t get my keyboard and laptop together, I have a roll up keyboard that works just great. Chopsticks sounded good to me anyway! I have a history of carpal tunnel so I do what I can. That’s why I took a break last year–too painful, but glad I can start up again and these videos are so helpful as incentive. Can’t thank you enough. Have a happy May day and upcoming Mother’s Day. Also–your grandma is adorable!!
Hi Lisa
Thank you for ALL of your videos. I’m working through them and find them extremely helpful. Even the chopsticks one wasn’t too hard – thanks to all the previous ones I’ve done. Your system is the easiest and most rewarding (for the student) that I’ve ever tried! Thank you so much. Blayne. 😎
Hi Lisa Sorry it took me so long .I worked very late the last few days. I started the chopsticks last night and it was just what I needed for my right hand. The church I go to has a christmas program and I am going to play all the songs for them thanks to your Christmas sheets. My right hand gives me trouble changing cords.So this new program will really help.Thanks for all your help.
Hi Lisa. Flash certainly works a lot faster although I had no problem before. I have transfered the videos to i -tunes and can now access them from my i pod anywhere. Must admit I havn’t used them as much as I should – I have become addicted to learning Moonlight Sonata via classical club. Thank you for everything Bob.
Good morning! I like the new video and think your Grandma’s video’s are entertaining. I haven’t had the time I would like to dedicate to these videos but find them very easy to follow. They are informative and as always enjoyable in regards to your teaching method. You are as patient as ever and a joy to follow. I haven’t found any difficulties as of yet but do think there have been really good suggestions. Thanks for all your time and effort.
Hi Lisa! I’ve had no problems viewing the videos using Flash Player. Thank you so much for all the material, which I’ve had a quick look at and intend to start working on soon. Just an idea which maybe someone else already mentioned: would it be useful if you also indicated which exercises would be particularly good to do before studying a particular piece from the lessons? Does that make any sense?
Keep up the good work. You’re fabulous!
Michèle
Hello Lisa,
The chopsticks test video works well. The replay is immediate.
I am enjoying the finger exercises.
I generally do as a warm up the first and second exercises on finger fitness and finger twisters; and practise the C scale which is the easiest I guess.
Thank you for all the help in assisting us overcome clumsy fingers.
Lisa will you please make the classical section available in Flash as I am unable to access the quicktime option?
Melita Braganza
Hi Lisa. First of all your videos are working very smoothly and I think that no further technical improvement is really needed.
I wandered in the various sections (with my slow pace) and I think you indeed gave a new dimension to your course. Really a very good job!
I have would like a comment on this point:
– the exercises are not related to the lessons of the course, is it possible to suggest pattern to follow? May be that a section appears to be more urgent than another but all are very useful.
Hi Lisa
I am finding your clumsy piano fingers lessons so interesting. The flash dowload works well for me and the replay is instant. I haven’t gone all the way through the lessons yet but so far they are really great. You have done an amazing job putting this together. Thanks Lisa I will get back to you when I have a chance to go through more of the videos.
Hi Lisa,
Reference test video: That was indeed a fun lesson, and it was very convenient not having to wait for the video to reload.
I enjoy your lessons very much.
Cheers, George
Hi Lisa,
Yes the new format seemed to load faster and the replay was faster.
Is it possible to have .avi versions of the Videos as that way I can watch them on my TV.
Alternatively can anyone suggest a good free .mov to .avi converter
Hi Lisa I just went in and tested the chopsticks video and it works great. The replay is instant. I haven’t went thur all the video’s yet but the ones I have are very helpful. Thanks so much for Clumsy Finger Boot Camp.
Dear Lisa,
Everything you are doing is great, fantastic very efficient and helpful.
My teacher is very surprised with my results every day; of course he doesn’t know I am following your lessons. For sure I’ll tell him later but for the moment is fun and very good at the same time because I see the result of following your lessons.
Vojo
~ Smile and Practice is the best advice ~
Dear Lisa,
The “Chopsticks” addition is great.
I would suggest, for your consideration, that you incorporate this and the “Clumsy Fingers videos into your lessons, thus creating structure and sheet music. The cost of the additional sheet music would,, of course, , be increased, but well worth it and not something that your competitors on the web could match, let alone exceed.
As it is, your costs are minimal when compared with the costs of private or even group music lessons available today. In short, your lessons are the best and most comprehensive, not to mention your personal concern with each and every one of your students, no matter what the degree of progress he or she has attained, currently available on the planet.
We are all grateful for your outstanding dedication to our interest in learning piano
Thankfully yours,
Ed
Ed, and everyone,
I really appreciate all your nice comments. I received a mean email last night that brought me to tears, no one has ever sent such an email, but this person had problems logging into his membership and thought I canceled it and called me a “greedy crooked slime ball”. I should not have let it bother me, but I received it at 1am after staying up trying to resolve the membership problem. I was on the phone with my hosting company for almost 2 hours, and then I get called a “greedy crooked slime ball”. Over tired and under slept, I just laid my head on my desk and wept. I think was hurt most was that this person has been a student for over a year.
So, comments like yours, and everyone else’s here mean a lot to me. It keeps me going and serving those who want to learn. I consider everyone not only my students, but my friends as well.
I sure appreciate you all.
Lisa
Hi Lisa,
The more I see the videos, the more interesting this seems. I am going through the videos for the 2nd time now.
I was wondering if you can pl have some pointers to fit these videos/exercises back into the piano lessons – we have been learning.
Not sure, probably with the bonus lessons, these might get fitted into the newer (bonus lessons), but even if these can go to complement the piano lessons, that would be great.
Regards,
Nitin
Lisa, your videos are very helpful. I, or you, are impressing a long time good pianist with the exercises I am showing him. I find that when I get frustrated with a new piece of music if I sit back and run through some of the exercises it lowers my frustration and gets me back on track enjoying the learning process.
Dear Lisa
I just saw your note re that mean comment that person made to you last night. He obviously hasn’t been following just how hard you have been working. Please forget what he said and just remember how many of us admire, and respect you and appreciate the way you are always there for us.
I had gone through the first few finger exercises and it had positively improve the strength of my fingers – meaning, its getting less clumsy. Thanks for your dedication and passion in helping us thus far. I will definitely spend more time practising. To have the exercises transcribe into Music Sheet is good for reference but it will be too much work for you so the present Flash Player is fine with me. Thanks again.
Hi Lisa,
Just tried the test video (Chopsticks) and it’s working fine 🙂
Lisa. I just can’t believe what that ~~+~~ said about you. Please just ignore him. It broke my heart to hear he left you in tears. We love you on this side of the pond!! Warmest regards. Bob
Hi Lisa,
Your lessons that get delivered to us with so much of dedication, with so much of tips to handle the tricky part on piano, which you anticipate and help us, you let us know, when you are not going to be available, you respond all our emails definitely whenever you see them, with so much of excellent communication from your end, it is very difficult to believe that someone can misunderstand you.
Lisa, please continue looking at the service you are doing by imparting this music to all of us, and to this world. Some comments would have hurt you, but then you should not take this on yourself. However they should not use the language they have used in their emails for no fault of yours.
Believe me, all of us here have full support for you and faith in you and will continue to be with you.
Regards,
Nitin
Hi Lisa,
It took me a few days but I finally got into the video. It works and I can’t wait to try and play chop sticks. Thank you for your dedication and emails.
Hi Lisa.
Sorry to be so late with this.
Just tried the test video (Chopsticks) and it’s working fine, no problems.
Thank you so much for this, I really like all your exercises.
Hal C.
Hey Lisa, the videos are great! Everything works great, the exercises are definitely wonderful tools! Thank you so much for this opportunity!
Hi Lisa,
I have not had any problems with any of the videos reloading quickly, after downloading the first time.
The optimized video did seem a bit quicker and smoother with the reload.
Thanks again for all of the help you give all of us .
Ed
Hey Lisa,
half an hour ago i tested the new CPF location, but it doesn’t work for me( looks very nice though!). I can’t access the videos via Quicktime-my pc freezes every single time i try to use it and the red button option is giving me trouble too-the videos keep pausing. However, the ‘ugly’ beta page gives me no trouble at all. I can access everything just fine. Is the new location experiencing some temporary technical difficulties because it’s still being under construction?
Greetings,
Tanja 🙂
The video formatting for the ugly page and the new page is the same. I have not changed anything, so I am not sure why there is a difference. It always works better when you let the video load first, then replay it. It should replay instantly and have no pauses.
This is strange because everything remains the same, the only difference is the appearance. Hmmm… I have tried to reproduce what you report on my own computer have not had difficulty. I will continue to look into this.
Hi Lisa!
I am very satisfied with the videos and the finger exercises. My fingers are already feeling more fluid and coordinated. They are an essential addition to the regular lessons and are potentially the best tool box we will ever have as we strive to become the best pianist we can be.
Lisa,
I have not gone through all the exercises as yet, but the ones I have looked at and tried were great. Glad you warned us in advance about the challenges. When I tried the first two hand controls and found that my fingers were doing exactly what you said would happen ( instead of one finger holding the key, both were doing the same activity) I had a good laugh instead of getting frustrated with my “clumsy fingers”.
Have you thought about creating a placemat for these exercises?
Will let you know more when I try the others.
Thank you,
Hi Lisa! Yesterday, everything worked fine on my computer (I can use Q-time or Flash) but this morning on the new site, with finger twister, the Flash didn’t worked??? I imagine it is temporary… just wanted to let you know!
By the way, I just LOVE all those exercises, I already see some improvements on the songs I practice. Thanks again!!!
p.s. When my mom (90 years old!) will be visiting this summer, I will have her see the video with your grand-mother and let her practice on the piano for her arthritis!!! thanks!
Hi Lisa,,
What happened with the new site?Is has gone through a tsunamy? It must go to bootcamp like us. haha.
Please let us stay with the old one , it is ugly but tremendous.!!! Thank you again for it. 1000 times.
There is a lot of job to do for the technicians ,sory for my bad english,but you understand me do you?
These exercises are like a medicine for those lazy old clumsy fingers.
Oh Lisa my heart is breaking for you ..(How someone could be so cruel) You are a dedicated lovely honest person and for a fellow student to be so cruel is not only unbelievable that a person who shares in interest in learning would leave such comments …I want you to know that not only most of your students love you …but God does as well…….take care Lisa..
Thank you Lisa for the clumsy finger exercises I find them fun to do and my fingers are more flexible.
Also I am so happy with the way you are teaching the
1st and 2nd chords. Would you also teach us the chromatic scales??? This same way as I love the way
I can watch your fingers as you explain it slowly.