The Bass Clef - How to Read Piano Notes in the Lower Register of the Piano

Home » Piano Notes »The Bass Staff - Read Piano Notes in in the Lower Register of the Piano

In the previous piano lesson we've learned to read piano notes on the treble clef which is used to state tones that are located above middle C
(If you need a reminder click here.)

Today we will learn to read notes that are located under middle C. In order to do that we use the bass clef.
Why do we need an other clef? Because If we'd like to write or read notes under middle C with the treble clef we will have to count too many ledger lines.
Instead we will use a new clef that will allow the lower notes to be located on the staff more comfortabely.

"On television I feel like a man playing piano in a brothel; every now and again he solaces himself by playing 'Abide with Me' in the hope of edifying both the clients and the inmates. ~Malcolm Muggeridge".

The Bass Clef

Take a look at it.
It reminds of letter F. Can you see it?

The bass clef tells us where F under middle C is located on the staff.

The bass treble has two dots. The dots point at the second line from above. When you'll see a note on that line you'll know that the note F under middle C should be played on the keyboard.

Just like we did when we studied about the treble clef we will find the other notes on the bass clef by moving up and down between and on the lines.

Stepping from F down

Did you notice that the stem of the notes under the middle line of the staff changed direction (Look at the lower C for example)? We're going to see why it is so in a moment but first I'd like to recommend a free really cool bass clef supplies I found in ebay.

Why should you buy the Bass Clef Supplies on Ebay?

- On eBay you will find every bass clef supply from the collection that has ever existed
- You know exactly what you're getting (and you know it'll work... ;-)

The Direction of the Stems of the Notes

Notes have stems. Each stem has direction. When they are set above the middle line or on it their stems will point point down.
Notes below the middle line point will point down.

note stems

Before we continue, here are some small melodies for the left hand.

1. Up and Down - Download Play | 2. In a Circle - Download Play

3. Hop and Jump - Download Play | 4. Swingin' - Download Play

5. Floating - Download Play

Now that we know how to read and play notes on the bass staff lets see how notes are arranged together on the grand staff. By learning to read notes on the grand staff we will be able to play musical pieces with both hands.

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