A finger piano, also known as a thumb piano or kalimba, is a musical instrument that is played by plucking metal tines or keys with the fingers. The notes on a finger piano are arranged in a specific order, typically following a diatonic scale. This means that the notes are laid out in a sequence of whole steps and half steps, similar to the white keys on a piano.
The standard finger piano typically has anywhere from 8 to 17 tines or keys, each producing a different pitch when plucked. The notes on a finger piano are usually tuned to a specific key, such as C major or G major, although some finger pianos may be tuned to other scales or even chromatically.
The specific notes on a finger piano can vary depending on the tuning and the number of keys, but I will provide a general overview of the notes in a standard 17-key finger piano tuned to C major.
Starting from the lowest pitch and moving up, the notes on a 17-key finger piano in C major are as follows:
1. C – played with the thumb (number 1 finger)
2. D – played with the index finger (number 2 finger)
3. E – played with the middle finger (number 3 finger)
4. F – played with the ring finger (number 4 finger)
5. G – played with the pinky finger (number 5 finger)
6. A – played with the thumb (number 1 finger)
7. B – played with the index finger (number 2 finger)
8. C – played with the middle finger (number 3 finger)
9. D – played with the ring finger (number 4 finger)
10. E – played with the pinky finger (number 5 finger)
11. F – played with the thumb (number 1 finger)
12. G – played with the index finger (number 2 finger)
13. A – played with the middle finger (number 3 finger)
14. B – played with the ring finger (number 4 finger)
15. C – played with the pinky finger (number 5 finger)
16. D – played with the thumb (number 1 finger)
17. E – played with the index finger (number 2 finger)
It’s important to note that finger piano playing technique may vary among individuals, and some players may use different fingers for certain notes depending on their hand size, comfort, and personal preference. The finger numbers provided here are a general guideline, but ultimately, it’s up to the player to find a finger placement that works best for them.
The notes on a finger piano are played by plucking metal tines or keys with the fingers. The finger numbers correspond to the recommended fingers for playing each note, with one representing the thumb, two for the index finger, three for the middle finger, four for the ring finger, and five for the pinky finger.