Music Lesson: Analyzing "Unfaithful" by Rihanna

Introduction

Let's check out "Unfaithful" by Ariana from a pro perspective. Before you start practicing this piece, have a look at the time signature and the key signature.

Key Signature

• Key of C minor
• Four flats

Scale and Cadence

• It's probably best to have a look at the scale and the cadence.

Tempo

• Original Tempo: 72 bpm (common time signature)
• Current Arrangement: 144 bpm in 4/4 time signature
• The change makes counting easier with four clicks per bar instead of two.

Emotional Connection

Once you're familiar with the cadence and your scale, consider:

How does this piece make you feel?

From my perspective, it's probably the only slow-paced song by Rihanna I remember listening to. The majority of her songs are fast-paced and energetic, while this one is an emotional ballad that tells a sad story.

Recommendation:
It's worth listening to the lyrics on YouTube or a recording to get the feeling you want to transfer through your fingers in this piece.

Pedaling Technique

When starting the piece, the most important advice I can give you is the right pedaling. This piece is great for learning how to pedal effectively.

Pedaling Practice

1. Before the piece begins, place your foot on the pedal, ensuring the heel is on the ground.
2. Practice the following motion:
   • Up, down, up, down, up, down, and hold.
   • Up, down, and hold.

Coordination Practice

• Practice the left hand together with the pedal first.
• Once you've got this right, add the right hand.
• Avoid distractions from pedaling and syncopations in the right hand.

Dynamics

To make this piece your own, especially on an acoustic piano like I have here, consider adding dynamics.

Dynamic Approach

• Start the piano nice and softly.
• For each phrase, do a little crescendo and then a little diminuendo.
• Create little waves of dynamics:
  • A bit louder, a bit softer, a bit louder, a bit softer.

Synchronization with Vocals

When the pre-chorus comes in (Bar 24):

• It's crucial that the right hand is in sync with the singer.
• Practicing alongside the singer will be beneficial for both.

Jump Technique

• In Bars 28 and 29, prepare for a little jump in the right hand.
• To avoid stressing about reaching the C note, prepare in the previous bar:
  • Start with the thumb: 1, 4, 3, 2, 1, 3, 2.
  • This will give you a strong foundation for hitting the C.

Coordination Exercise

As we enter the chorus (Bar 32):

• Practice the coordination between the right and left hands.
• Keep the thumb in the left hand flexible; tension can lead to unnecessary stress.

Left Hand Practice

• Practice the left hand separately until you feel comfortable.
• Once you have this down, you'll be well-prepared to perform the piece.

Outro

The piece closes with a four-bar outro taken from the intro.

• I recommend keeping the beat running.
• The original track doesn't slow down at the end, which helps maintain excitement.

Summary of Key Points

1. Slow Practice: Essential for mastering pedal coordination and hand synchronization.
2. Start at half tempo (70-80 bpm).
3. Gradually speed up by 5 or 10 bpm on the metronome until you reach 144 bpm.
4. After each practice session, return to the slower tempo to reinforce learning.
5. Practicing slowly helps your brain memorize effectively.

Remember: "Up, down." Don't finish too fast.
The next day, you'll find it perfectly in your fingers.

Conclusion

I believe this is a fun piece to practice, and I wish you all the best for your performance. Good luck!