Let’s now try making some country sounds with the right hand playing, imitating the western ‘slurred’ styling of Floyd Cramer (Eg. Last Date, Unchained Melody). You could also effectively apply this playing technique to tunes like Rhythm of the Falling Rain, My Way, and A White Shade of Pale.

Watch my above video, and you’ll see that it all starts by playing around with a certain set of notes, that are pretty similar to the ‘Oriental’ ones covered in my other blog.

As usual, after you’re well familiar with them, try them in different keys you know, and apply them to some of songs you know. Also, listen closely to Floyd’s right hand melody in his YouTube videos, and try following along with him.

You will notice that he doesn’t of course play the country effect throughout the entire song, but instead applies the touch selectively to parts where effectively bring out the expression.

The next time you hear some pianists play, try and hear if and where they apply these touches to get ideas.

Thank you.