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How to Play Latin Sounds for the Piano

Playing Latin sounds on the piano does not require any specialized piano training or skills, just a different type of style of playing. Instead of learning new techniques, you'll need to listen and understand the basics of Latin music. A piano is a versatile instrument and can produce more than classical, jazz or blues. Playing different sounds on the piano just requires an interest in a certain style, and practice.

Things You'll Need

  • Piano
  • Sheet music
  • Latin music
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Instructions

    • 1

      Listen to Latin music. Find CDs, download songs, or go to clubs or bars where Latin music is played. Before being able to play Latin sounds on the piano, it is important to introduce yourself to the basic form.

    • 2

      Check out different Latin music styles. Salsa piano can be written with a 12/8 time signature, when the most common is 4/4. Play a tango piano piece faster, with more breaks than a traditional, non-Latin sound. Syncopate in bossa nova style piano.

    • 3

      Find sheet music for tango, bossa nova, salsa, merengue or mambo. Alternatively, you can play by ear, listening to different composers (Tom Jobim, for example), and try to imitate or recreate the sound.

    • 4

      Start delving away from sheet music and composers, and compose or improvise your own piece. Knowing the basic rhythm, breaks and various types and styles will give you an idea of how to create a tango piece on piano, even if it is not a masterpiece.

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