Waltz seesaw
One low note, then two higher ones: oom-pah-pah with single notes. 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. Play C on 1, then G on 2 and 3.
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 Waltz seesaw on piano?
One low note, then two higher ones: oom-pah-pah with single notes. Root and fifth alternating: country, folk and march bass. Musicians call it root-fifth 1-5-5 (3/4).
Is Waltz 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 Waltz seesaw?
Carnival Of Venice by Julius Benedict, Arabian Dance ("Coffee") by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and When I Call Your Name by Vince Gill use Waltz seesaw. The songs on this page all use it in the left hand, the most played first.