How to Play “Fallin’ Slowly” on the Piano
“Fallin’ Slowly” is a beautiful song written by Bob Dylan and made famous by the Irish folk band The Lumineers. The song’s haunting melody and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences around the world. If you’re looking to master this classic tune on the piano, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Understanding the Chords
Before diving into the melody, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the song’s chord progression. “Fallin’ Slowly” is primarily in the key of G major, and the chords used are G, C, D, and Em. These chords form the basis of the song’s structure and provide a solid foundation for your piano playing.
Learning the Chords
To play the chords, start by practicing each one individually. Begin with the G major chord, which is formed by placing your index finger on the G note (middle C on a 88-key piano), your middle finger on the B note (one octave above middle C), and your ring finger on the D note (one octave above middle C). The thumb should rest on the bottom of the piano, providing support.
Next, move on to the C major chord, which is similar to the G major chord but with the index finger on the C note (one octave above middle C). The C major chord is essential for the bridge of the song.
The D major chord is formed by placing your index finger on the D note (one octave above middle C), your middle finger on the F note (one octave above middle C), and your ring finger on the A note (one octave above middle C). The D major chord is used throughout the song.
Finally, the Em chord is a minor chord, formed by placing your index finger on the E note (one octave above middle C), your middle finger on the G note (one octave above middle C), and your ring finger on the B note (one octave above middle C). The Em chord is used in the first and last lines of the song.
Playing the Melody
Now that you’ve mastered the chords, it’s time to focus on the melody. “Fallin’ Slowly” has a simple yet beautiful melody that can be played using both the right and left hands. Here’s a breakdown of the melody:
– The melody is primarily played in the right hand, using the middle and index fingers.
– The melody follows the same pattern as the chords, with the exception of the Em chord, where the melody skips a beat.
– To play the melody, start by playing the G major chord with your right hand while humming the melody. Focus on the rhythm and the timing of the notes.
– Gradually add the C, D, and Em chords to the melody, following the same pattern as before.
Practicing and Improving
To become proficient at playing “Fallin’ Slowly” on the piano, practice regularly. Start by playing the chords and melody separately, then gradually combine them. Pay attention to the rhythm and timing, and don’t be afraid to slow down if needed. As you become more comfortable with the song, you can experiment with different dynamics and expressiveness to add your own touch to the performance.
Remember, mastering a song like “Fallin’ Slowly” takes time and patience. Keep practicing, and you’ll soon be able to play this beautiful tune with confidence and emotion.
