The Notes Middle C, D and E
Middle C is written just below the treble staff on a short line called a ledger line. See How to Find Middle C section to locate middle C on the keyboard.
C Note
Middle C is played with the first finger (thumb) of your right hand.
D Note
The D note is played with the second finger of your right hand.
E Note
The E note is played with the third finger of your right hand.
The Quarter Note
This is a quarter note. It lasts for one beat. There are four quarter notes in one bar of * time.
In the following example there are four bars of music, two bars of middle C (bars 1 and 4), one bar of the D note (bar 2) and one bar of the E note (bar 3). There are four quarter notes in each bar.
The Half Note
This is a half note. It lasts for two beats. There are two half notes in one bar of * time.
The Whole Note
This is a whole note. It lasts for four beats. There is one whole note in one bar of * time.
The larger bold numbers in the count indicate that a note is to be played. The smaller numbers indicate that a note is to be held until the next bold number (note).
This song contains quarter, half and whole notes. Make sure you use the correct fingers and follow the count carefully.
The Notes F and G
F Note
Play the note F with the fourth finger of your right hand.
G Note
Play the note G with the fifth finger of your right hand.
The song Aura Lee contains 8 bars of music in * time. Remember to count as you play, to help you keep time.
Things to Remember
- Play the keys with the tips of your fingers.
- Keep your fingers curved.
