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What are the finger numbers used in piano lessons?

According to instruction captured in a piano lesson transcript, fingers are numbered as follows for both hands:

  • 1 — Thumb (noted as a helpful rhyme: "thumb and one, they kind of rhyme")
  • 2 — Index finger
  • 3 — Middle finger
  • 4 — Ring finger
  • 5 — Pinky finger

These numbers are used to indicate which fingers to use when playing specific keys or exercises.

Also asked as

  • Which finger is number one on the piano?
  • How are piano fingers numbered?
  • What does it mean when a piano teacher says finger two or finger three?
Answered by Nicole Burns ·

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