Springy footsteps
A quick double skip at the start, then steady steps to the end. 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 &" (say "and" for &). Play low C on 1 and 1&, then high C on 2, then low C on 3, then high C on 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 Springy footsteps on piano?
A quick double skip at the start, then steady steps to the end. The root alone in a fixed rhythm, octave jumps optional. The piano version of a kick-drum pattern. Musicians call it root bass, 1, 1&, 2, 3, 4.
Is Springy footsteps 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 Springy footsteps?
Untouched by The Veronicas, Treasure by Bruno Mars and Bye Bye Bye by *NSYNC use Springy footsteps. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.