Hopscotch steps
Step, step, skip a beat, step: like hopping over a square. One of the root note patterns.
How to play it
Find the notes
Put your left hand over a C chord. You need low C (little finger, 5) and high C (thumb, 1).
Count and play
Count 1, 2, 3, 4. Play low C on 1, then high C on 2 and 4.
Move it with the chords
When the chord changes to G, the same rhythm moves to the notes of G: low G and high G. Play it slowly over the chord loop above, at 60% speed first, then faster.
Songs that use it
Questions
What is Hopscotch steps on piano?
Step, step, skip a beat, step: like hopping over a square. The root alone in a fixed rhythm, octave jumps optional. The piano version of a kick-drum pattern. Musicians call it root bass, 1, 2, 4.
Is Hopscotch steps 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 Hopscotch steps?
Thrive by Casting Crowns, Sweater Weather by The Neighbourhood and I Can See Clearly Now by Johnny Nash use Hopscotch steps. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.