The Secrets of Pedaling: How to Use the Sustain and Soft Pedals Like a Pro

Pedaling is one of the most powerful tools at a pianist’s disposal. While fingers bring the notes to life, it’s the pedals that shape those notes into an expressive, emotional performance. Most pianists are familiar with the sustain (right) pedal and the soft (left) pedal, but few truly understand how to use them to their full potential. In this blog, we’ll uncover the secrets of pedaling and give you the tips you need to master these essential tools. If you’re serious about refining your technique, piano lessons in Fort Wayne with Tommy Schilb can take your pedaling to the next level!

1. The Sustain Pedal: More Than Just Holding Notes

The sustain pedal, also known as the damper pedal, is the most commonly used pedal on the piano. When pressed, it lifts the dampers off the strings, allowing notes to resonate even after your fingers leave the keys. While it’s tempting to use the sustain pedal constantly, strategic application is key.

• Proper Timing: One of the most important aspects of sustain pedaling is timing. Instead of pressing the pedal when you play a note, aim to press it just after, creating a smooth connection between harmonies without blurring the sound.

• Half-Pedaling: Advanced players can use half-pedaling to control the amount of resonance. This technique, where you depress the sustain pedal halfway, allows for a more delicate blend of sound, particularly useful in fast passages where full pedal might muddy the texture.

• Pedaling for Color: You can also use the sustain pedal to enhance the emotional intensity of a piece. By holding it slightly longer in lyrical sections or releasing it more quickly in staccato sections, you create dynamic contrast and shape the phrasing more effectively. These nuances are key to developing professional-level pedal control—something often covered in depth during piano lessons in Fort Wayne with Tommy Schilb.

2. The Soft Pedal: Shaping Tone and Dynamics

The soft pedal (una corda pedal) is the often-underestimated tool for adjusting tone and color. On a grand piano, pressing the soft pedal shifts the entire keyboard mechanism slightly to the right, so the hammers strike fewer strings (or a different part of the strings), creating a softer, more intimate sound. On upright pianos, this pedal brings the hammers closer to the strings, reducing the intensity of the sound.

• Not Just for Quiet Playing: Many assume the soft pedal is only for playing softly, but it can also be used to create different tone colors, even in louder dynamics. In romantic music, like Chopin or Debussy, the soft pedal is crucial for producing warm, velvety tones without sacrificing clarity.

• Combining Pedals: An advanced pedaling technique involves using the soft pedal in combination with the sustain pedal. This pairing can create a lush, enveloping sound, especially useful in slower, more emotional pieces.

3. Pedal Technique in Various Styles

Different styles of music call for different approaches to pedaling. In classical music, precision is paramount—every pedal movement must be intentional to preserve the clarity of counterpoint. In jazz, pedal use can be more liberal, often employed to enhance the mood or create smooth legato phrasing. Understanding the style you’re playing in is crucial for appropriate pedal usage.

4. Pedal Practice Strategies

Mastering the art of pedaling takes patience and awareness. Here are some strategies to refine your pedaling technique:

• Pedal Without the Hands: Try practicing a piece by pressing the pedal according to the harmonic changes without playing the notes. This forces you to listen to the changes in sound and helps develop better timing.

• Record Yourself: Listening back to your playing is one of the best ways to hear how your pedaling affects the sound. You might find that certain passages are too muddy or not connected enough, which can be adjusted in future practice.

• Experiment with Your Instrument: Every piano responds to pedaling differently, so part of being a "pro" is learning how your specific instrument behaves. Spend time experimenting with full, half, and soft pedaling to see how much control you have.

Mastering the sustain and soft pedals is all about intention, control, and experimentation. When used correctly, these pedals elevate your playing from good to breathtaking, adding depth, warmth, and emotion to your performance. Whether you’re aiming to improve your pedaling or hone your overall piano technique, personalized guidance can make all the difference. For those looking for piano lessons in Fort Wayne with Tommy Schilb, expect to dive deep into these professional-level techniques to unlock the full potential of your playing.

Happy pedaling!