Piano Pedals

You would be surprised to learn how little most piano students really know about their instrument. Here are some good ways to explain the pedals.


• The right piano pedal is called the “sustaining pedal” or “damper pedal.” It allows sound to continue after the keys are released.

• The left pedal is called the “soft pedal” or “una corda pedal.” It makes the piano sound softer and more muted.

• The middle pedal is called the “sostenuto pedal” and sustains only those sounds that are first produced when the pedal is depressed.

• Before foot pedals were invented, players had to use their knee to move a lever!

To learn more, visit Alberti Publishing.
Illustration by Heidi Cabrera.