Piano pedals are often overlooked by beginners, but they play a vital role in transforming the instrument’s sound and expressiveness. Whether you’re playing a delicate classical piece, a lively jazz tune, or a modern pop ballad, the pedals on your piano help shape the character of your music. In this guide from Academy of Music, we’ll explore everything you need to know about piano pedals, their history, functions, and how you can master their use:
Piano pedals have been part of the instrument’s design since the 18th century. Early pianos didn’t have pedals at all; instead, they used knee levers to create different sound effects. As piano design evolved, pedals became standard. Today, nearly all acoustic and digital pianos come equipped with at least two or three pedals.
But what exactly do these pedals do? In short, they give pianists the ability to alter the sound of the piano in real time. From creating a rich, sustained tone to softening the dynamics or isolating certain notes, pedals expand what’s possible on the keyboard.
The Three Main Pedals & Their Functions
Most modern pianos have three pedals, each with a unique purpose. Let’s break down what each one does:
Sustain Pedal (Right Pedal)
The sustain pedal, also known as the damper pedal, is the most frequently used pedal on the piano. When you press it down, it lifts all the dampers off the strings, allowing them to vibrate freely. This causes the notes you play to sustain even after you release the keys, creating a fuller, more resonant sound.
In addition to sustaining individual notes, the sustain pedal helps connect chords and melodies smoothly, adding emotional depth to the music. Almost every genre of piano music makes use of this pedal, from classical to pop to jazz.
Soft Pedal (Left Pedal / Una Corda)
The soft pedal, or una corda pedal, shifts the piano’s hammers slightly to the side (in acoustic grand pianos), so they strike fewer strings for each note. This results in a softer, more muted tone. On upright pianos, the soft pedal moves the hammers closer to the strings to achieve a similar effect.
This pedal is used to add subtlety and colour to the music. In some pieces, the soft pedal helps create a sense of intimacy or mystery.
Sostenuto Pedal (Middle Pedal)
The sostenuto pedal is perhaps the least understood of the three. It allows pianists to selectively sustain certain notes while other notes remain unaffected. When you press a key (or keys) and then engage the sostenuto pedal, only those notes will sustain. This allows for complex layering of sounds and is mainly used in advanced or contemporary compositions.
Not all pianos have a true sostenuto pedal. Some upright and digital pianos use the middle pedal for other functions, like a practice mute pedal.
How Piano Pedals Influence Your Music
Piano pedals provide musicians with a range of expressive tools that can dramatically change the mood and texture of a piece. Here are just a few examples:
- Blending harmonies: The sustain pedal helps connect notes smoothly, especially in lyrical passages.
- Dynamic shading: The soft pedal lets you play with greater delicacy, perfect for quiet, introspective moments.
- Creative layering: The sostenuto pedal allows for unique effects, like holding a bass note while playing staccato chords above.
Each composer uses pedal markings differently. For instance, romantic composers like Chopin and Liszt often relied heavily on pedal effects to achieve their lush, dramatic soundscapes. In contrast, classical composers such as Mozart and Haydn used pedals more sparingly.
Learning To Use Piano Pedals
While pressing a pedal may seem simple, using pedals well is an art that requires practice and skill. Proper pedal technique is often overlooked, it’s important to carefully follow the pedal markings suggested in the music. A common mistake is to not clear (lift) the damper pedal after each harmonic (chord) change. The effect is too many notes sounding at once with conflicting harmonies producing a muddy unpleasant sound. Another very common mistake is lifting the pedal too early before the harmonic change happens causing a disconnect and eliminating the smooth progression of harmonies.
The best way to learn proper pedal technique is through personalized instruction.
The right teacher can help you develop control and confidence with pedals from the start. If you’re ready to take the next step in your piano journey. Our experienced instructors can help you master every part of the instrument, including its pedals!
Here are a few tips beginners often hear when learning pedal technique:
- Listen carefully. Good pedalling is all about your ears. You want the pedal to enhance the sound, not blur it.
- Coordinate hands and feet. Timing the pedal with the keys takes practice. Many beginners start by pedalling too soon or holding the pedal too long.
- Start slowly. Mastering pedalling in slow practice will help it feel natural at faster speeds.
Digital Pianos & Pedals: What To Know
Many digital pianos come with a sustain pedal, but the type and quality can vary. Entry-level keyboards often have a simple switch pedal that functions on or off, whereas higher-end models include a more sophisticated pedal that responds to how hard or far you press it (known as half-pedalling).
Some digital pianos offer three-pedal setups that mimic the feel and function of acoustic pianos. This is ideal for students who want to practice proper pedal technique at home.
When shopping for a digital piano or pedal accessory, consider these factors:
- Pedal feel: Is it weighted and responsive, or just a plastic switch?
- Compatibility: Will it work with your specific piano model?
- Durability: Is it built to last, or will it need frequent replacement?
How To Care For & Maintain Your Piano Pedals
Piano pedals are mechanical parts that see regular use. Over time, they can become noisy, loose, or sluggish if not maintained. Here’s how to keep them in good shape:
- Clean regularly. Wipe down pedals with a soft cloth to prevent grime buildup.
- Watch for squeaks. If your pedal starts to squeak, it might need lubrication, but it’s best to consult a technician rather than attempt DIY fixes.
- Check the action. If a pedal feels loose or unresponsive, a piano technician can adjust or repair the mechanism.
Keeping your pedals in good condition helps ensure your piano always sounds its best.
Final Thoughts
Piano pedals are more than just foot-operated levers; they are essential tools for artistic expression. Whether you’re playing a tender nocturne or a bold concerto, your use of the pedals will shape the sound and emotional impact of your performance.
If you’re eager to refine your pedal technique and explore all the expressive possibilities of the piano, Academy of Music is here to help. Our piano classes are available at all of our locations, including Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, and Edmonton. Our experienced instructors provide personalized guidance to help you master the piano, pedals and all.