The Octave
An octave is the range of eight notes of a major scale. The first and last note of a major scale always has the same name. In the C major scale, the distance from Middle C to the C note above it (or below it) is one octave (eight notes).
All the songs you have studied so far, plus the next song, use notes from the C major scale. Pay close attention to any fingering numbers above the notes. It is important to use the indicated fingering, as this will make the songs easier to play. Use this same fingering every time you play the songs.
The Tie
A tie is a curved line that connects two notes with the same position on the staff. A tie tells you to play the first note only, and to hold it for the length of both notes.
This example demonstrates the tie. The note in bar 1 is tied to the note in bar 2. Play the C note and hold it for six beats.
La Spagnola uses notes from the C major scale and uses fingers over in bar 16, and thumb under between bars 20 and 21. Do not confuse the tie with the Legato slur (introduced in lesson 4).
Suggested Rhythm: Waltz
The Eighth Note
This is an eighth note. It lasts for half a count. There are 8 eighth notes in one bar of * time. When eighth notes are joined together the tails are replaced by one beam.
There are two eighth notes on the second beat of the first bar. The notes in the second bar are played staccato.
If your keyboard has an intro button, practice using it before each example.
Suggested Rhythm: Rock
