Tiptoe seesaw
A low note, then the higher note tiptoes on every “and”. One of the root and fifth patterns.
How to play it
Find the notes
Put your left hand over a C chord. You need C (little finger, 5) and G (thumb, 1).
Count and play
Count "1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &" (say "and" for &). Play C on 1, then G on 1&, 2&, 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 D. Play it slowly over the chord loop above, at 60% speed first, then faster.
Songs that use it
Questions
What is Tiptoe seesaw on piano?
A low note, then the higher note tiptoes on every “and”. Root and fifth alternating: country, folk and march bass. Musicians call it root-fifth 1-5-5-5.
Is Tiptoe seesaw 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 Tiptoe seesaw?
I'm Still Standing by Elton John, Ain't No Mountain High Enough by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell and Faded by Alan Walker use Tiptoe seesaw. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.