Waltz roots
One low note on each of the three beats: a simple waltz floor. 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. Play low C on 1, then high C on 2 and 3.
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 Waltz roots on piano?
One low note on each of the three beats: a simple waltz floor. The root alone in a fixed rhythm, octave jumps optional. The piano version of a kick-drum pattern. Musicians call it root bass, 3/4 quarters.
Is Waltz roots 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 Waltz roots?
If I Ain't Got You by Alicia Keys, In Christ Alone by Keith & Kristyn Getty and A Natural Woman by Aretha Franklin use Waltz roots. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.