How to Make Piano Trills Sound Better (in 4 steps)

Trills can be incredibly challenging, often leaving piano players feeling frustrated and unable to achieve the level of musicality they desire. Let’s break down the process of mastering piano trills into four simple steps that will have you playing with grace, freedom, and ease in no time.

Step 1: The Rhythm

The first step in improving your piano trills is to nail down the rhythm. Many players approach trills with a sense of panic because they haven't defined the rhythm clearly. To tackle this, start by determining how many notes you'll be playing and how they align with the other hand. By measuring out the trill and deciding on the beats, you'll provide clear signals to your hands, making execution much smoother.

Whether you opt for a shorter trill or a longer one, it's essential to make a deliberate choice based on factors like recordings of professional pianists, multiple editions of the score, and historical context. Once you've made your decision, commit to it, write it in your score, and practice consistently.

Step 2: The Fingering

Choosing the right fingering is crucial for executing trills consistently. Aim to use fingers 2, 3, and 4 whenever possible, as they offer more control and strength. Consider what comes before and after the trill in the piece, avoiding awkward transitions. Test out different fingerings to find what feels most comfortable and allows for smooth execution, ensuring that your choice works well at various tempos.

Step 3: The Technique

Proper technique is key to playing trills with fluidity and beauty. Focus on lifting and dropping into the trill whenever possible, utilizing a slight wrist rotation for motion rather than relying solely on finger movement. Keep your wrist loose and fingers glued to the keys to avoid tension. Practice dropping into and lifting out of the trill to develop a natural flow.

Step 4: Revolutionary Practice Methods

Once you've mastered the rhythm, fingering, and technique, it's time to incorporate revolutionary practice methods to refine your trills further. Techniques such as practicing trills in rhythms and using flash practice can help solidify your skills and improve speed and accuracy. Check out additional blogs on piano practice techniques for in-depth guidance.

Remember, mastering piano trills takes time, patience, and dedication. Join supportive piano communities, seek feedback, and continue refining your skills. With perseverance and the right approach, you'll soon be playing trills with confidence and musicality.

To see this method using Mozart's Sonata K545 as an example, check out the full length tutorial on the YouTube channel. 👇🏻