Translating Taubman: The biomechanics of "curling the fingers" in piano technique

Abstract

Piano technique is considered significant to performance quality and the prevention of playing-related injuries. Both teachers and researchers stand to benefit from exchanging knowledge on this topic. However, differences in biomechanical and technical terminology can pose challenges for communicating and scientifically evaluating ideas about piano technique. Therefore, it would be beneficial to translate terminology across disciplines to allow successful knowledge exchanges. This study addresses linguistic difficulties related to the Taubman Approach to piano technique, which has gained prominence as a pedagogical approach. A two-stage qualitative method was used to extract key ideas from Taubman Approach sources, and to translate them into scientific language. Findings are given for two main categories related to curling the fingers: 1) What is curling? and 2) Does curling lead to physical/musical problems? The biomechanical translation of Taubman Approach sources suggests that curling involves flexing the distal interphalangeal joints by activating extrinsic flexor muscles. Further, curling while playing the piano may increase co-contraction and stiffness across the wrist/finger joints, inhibiting movement in multiple planes and potentially leading to technical limitations and/or injury. This study provides an example of how pedagogical language can be translated into scientific language. These findings can clarify concepts, help bridge communication gaps, and provide a basis for further research on piano technique and injury development. Findings can also help teachers better understand Taubman’s concept of curling, and why she believed it should be avoided. Finally, findings provide teachers with anatomical and biomechanical concepts that can help their students better understand piano technique.