Bar 7 of Fur Elise  sparks debate: D or E? Some players follow the book, some follow their ears. I like to play an E the first two times and save the D for the final appearance. Why? In A minor, it’s a V–I progression. Skip the D early, and it’s simple; add it, and you get a dominant 7th with a subtle, exotic twist. Holding the D until the end surprises the listener and makes the resolution even more beautiful. Want more info check the Henle Blog . The RCM Grade 7 book shows a D every time,...

Actually, no — they level the playing field. If you have smaller hands, it’s natural to wonder: “Won’t large-handed pianists be able to reach even more on narrow keys?” It’s a fair question — but the answer is a reassuring no. Narrow Keys: The End of the Big-Hand Advantage Traditional pianos were built around large hands. For centuries, the size of the keys decided who could play what — not talent, artistry, or dedication. Narrow keys change that. They don’t give big-handed pianists extra...