Note from Barbara Lister-Sink
An extraordinary number of books have been written on piano (keyboard) technique over the centuries. While the authors are intelligent, dedicated, insightful and often successful teachers and players, the written word, in general, tends to create yet more confusion. Contradictory opinions, excessively detailed scientific and anatomical descriptions and easily misinterpreted terminology often leave the reader frustrated and bewildered. Playing any keyboard can be one of the most complex coordinations known to human kind. It is an intensely physical experience that defies verbal description. One simply cannot describe the fragrance of a rose, or the sensations of well-coordinated playing. So we are left with a handful of books below that will inform and not as easily confuse, although there will still  be contradictions from author to author .My apologies to dedicated authors whose worthy books are inadvertently omitted. –BL-S

What Every Pianist Needs to Know About the Body by Thomas Mark (GIA Publications, Inc., Chicago, 2003) This book and video are excellent for all musicians, but are most appropriate for serious student and adult keyboardists.

Famous Pianists & Their Technique by Reginald Gerig (Indiana University Press, 2007) An exhaustive, complete look at the history of keyboard technique– “schools,” methods, famous teachers, etc. Extremely well-written by a highly informed pianist who has dedicated his life to researching the world of piano (keyboard) technique. The last chapter discusses the most recent return to  “enlightened technique,” i.e., integrated, whole-body coordinated, injury-preventive playing.

A Symposium for Pianists and Teachers: Strategies to Develop the Mind and Body for Optimal Performance  (Heritage Music Press, Dayton, OH, 2002) Ten authoritative authors offer their expertise and unique viewpoints in a comprehensive look at piano playing.  Body, mind, emotions and spirit are all addressed in great detail, chapter by chapter.  From performance anxiety, through biomechanics, holistic health, sound pedagogy, mind control, practice methods, etc., etc., this compendium offers an unprecedented amount and depth of information. Viewpoints sometimes differ but all authors are united by their unswerving dedication to developing joyous, informed, and healthy pianists.

Mastering Piano Technique by Seymour Fink (Amadeus Press, l992) A rational, comprehensive and systematic approach to developing healthy piano technique with special emphasis on free, natural movements and biomechanical laws.  Filled with fascinating anatomical information and imaginative exercises.

 The Pianist’s Talent by Harold Taylor (Kahn & Averill, 9 Harrington Rd., London, England, 1994) A small, insightful book on the application of the principles of the Alexander Technique in the playing of a number of the great piano prodigies, including Artur Rubinstein. Historic photos included.