Master the Melodies- A Step-by-Step Guide to Playing ‘Just Be Held’ on the Piano

How to Play “Just Be Held” on Piano

Learning to play “Just Be Held” on the piano can be an incredibly rewarding experience. This beautiful song, originally performed by Labrinth and Emeli Sandé, has captured the hearts of many with its heartfelt lyrics and soothing melody. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate pianist, mastering this song can enhance your piano skills and provide you with a sense of accomplishment. In this article, we will guide you through the process of playing “Just Be Held” on the piano, step by step.

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Song

Before diving into the piano tutorial, it’s essential to listen to the song multiple times to get a feel for its structure, rhythm, and melody. Pay attention to the key changes, tempo, and the way the chords are played. This will help you understand the song’s nuances and make the learning process smoother.

2. Identify the Chords

“Just Be Held” is primarily in the key of G major. Familiarize yourself with the following chords:

– G major (G)
– C major (C)
– D major (D)
– E minor (Em)
– A minor (Am)

You can use a chord chart or a music theory book to learn the fingerings for these chords.

3. Learn the Basic Chord Progression

The song follows a simple chord progression: G – C – D – Em – Am – G – C – D – Em – Am – G. Practice playing these chords in sequence, ensuring that you transition smoothly between them. Pay attention to the rhythm and timing, as these are crucial for a polished performance.

4. Practice the Melody

” Just Be Held” features a distinctive melody that weaves in and out of the chord progression. To play the melody, you’ll need to use both your right and left hands. Here’s a brief overview of the melody:

– Right hand: Play the melody notes using the thumb and pinky fingers, alternating between the G and C chords.
– Left hand: Play the bass notes using the middle and ring fingers, while the thumb rests on the piano.

5. Combine the Chords and Melody

Once you’re comfortable playing the chords and melody separately, it’s time to combine them. Start by playing the melody with your right hand while holding the bass notes with your left hand. Practice this until you can play both hands simultaneously without losing tempo or rhythm.

6. Add Dynamics and Expression

To bring your performance to life, add dynamics and expression. Use the sustain pedal to create a richer sound, and vary the volume and articulation of your notes. Experiment with different dynamics to convey the emotions of the song.

7. Practice Regularly

Like any skill, playing “Just Be Held” on the piano requires consistent practice. Dedicate time each day to work on the song, focusing on different aspects, such as chord transitions, melody, and dynamics. Over time, you’ll notice your skills improving, and you’ll be able to play the song with confidence and passion.

In conclusion, learning to play “Just Be Held” on the piano is a fulfilling journey that can enhance your musical abilities and provide you with a beautiful piece to add to your repertoire. By following these steps and practicing regularly, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this timeless song.