Double-step climb
Two beats on the root, two on the next chord note up: simple and steady. One of the broken chord patterns.
How to play it
Find the notes
Put your left hand over a C chord. You need C (little finger, 5) and E (middle finger, 3).
Count and play
Count 1, 2, 3, 4. Play C on 1 and 2, then E on 3 and 4.
Move it with the chords
When the chord changes to G, the same rhythm moves to the notes of G: G and B. Play it slowly over the chord loop above, at 60% speed first, then faster.
Songs that use it
Questions
What is Double-step climb on piano?
Two beats on the root, two on the next chord note up: simple and steady. Chord tones one at a time, within an octave. Musicians call it broken chord 1-1-3-3.
Is Double-step climb hard to play?
It is a beginner pattern. Play it with your left hand alone at 60% speed until it feels steady, then add the other hand.
Which songs use Double-step climb?
Coat Of Many Colors by Dolly Parton, Don't Get Me Wrong by The Pretenders and Right As Rain by Adele use Double-step climb. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.