The Locked Hands Technique is a block chord technique in which the right hand and the left hand are both playing the melody and the chords fit in the middle.

Jazz piano tutorial demonstrates and explains the locked hands technique. A technique introduced by Milt Buckner in the 30's and 40's. and used extensively by Nat King Cole and George Shearing,

Locked Hands Technique, George Shearing's Lullaby Of Birdland



Den

Den,

I find this a really interesting way of playing the piano, and it gives it a unique sound. It must be difficult to work out what notes to play in between those two melody lines to get the harmony that you want to hear. Playing with all those notes using the fingers of both hands must be really difficult .. but worth the effort to get that sound!

Thanks for posting!

Hugh

In this video there is a little cogwheel in the bottom for the settings. Click that and you can set the video speed to 0.25%. This will enable you to see exactly where the fingers go. Sound is not too good at that speed but you can follow some of the finger placements. Regards, Den.
ps. I don't and can't play piano.

Den,

I have found another video where Kent Hewitt demonstrates the Locked Hands Technique. This time it's to play Fly Me To The Moon. He goes into some depth regarding the chords he uses (which as you have pointed out you can slow down to see his fingering more clearly). I find it fascinating how he uses 'diminished' chords to lead from one part of the melody to another .. bearing in mind that in this way of playing you change the harmony for every note of the melody you play.

" Fly Me To The Moon", Locked Hands Technique, Piano Tutorial



Hugh