How To: Play "Clair de lune" on piano — Measure 1

Begin playing the first measure in Claude Debussy's "Clair de lune" masterpiece. This song has stood the test of time, and influenced musicians around the world. This makes it a really good piece to begin learning piano with. This video covers Measure 1.

Get started learning the very first notes of Debussy's "Clair de lune". Using the G clefs in both hands, we can easily map out where to find the notes, keeping in mind the special rules governed by the Key Signature that changes most of the notes to flats. We also learn about ties and how they're used to extend the length of notes. Also, see how to use a special program to better illustrate using the damper pedal (far right) to control how notes are sustained and released.

"Clair de lune from scratch" is a video lesson series designed to help folks who have never played the piano before get started right away learning how to read real music and play this masterpiece by Claude Debussy. The secret that all teachers use is to teach in small portions.

You can download the MusicReader version of "Clair de lune" itself, right here.

Watch all of the videos in the "Clair de lune from Scratch" series on WonderHowTo.