Lesson 1 – First Verse in E Minor

In this first lesson, we’ll explore the opening verse of "Romance", written in E minor, and begin laying the foundation for a sensitive and expressive interpretation.

We’ll start by breaking down the melody in the right hand, with clear, detailed guidance on fingering to help you play fluidly and comfortably.

Then, we’ll explore several accompaniment options for the left hand — beginning with a very simple version suited for beginners, and gradually moving toward richer, more technical patterns for intermediate and advanced pianists.

No matter your level, you’ll find a version that matches your ability while allowing you to deepen your musicality and expression.

Let’s begin this journey into the delicate and poetic world of Romance.

Melody

The letters above the melody indicate the chord names, which are meant to be played with the left hand to accompany the melody.

Chords

Here are the notes of each chord used in this piece. Use this as a reference to know exactly which notes to play with your left hand.

How to Use the Chords and Patterns 

In this piece, you’ll see three chord letters written above the melody: Em, A, and B. These indicate the chords to be played with your left hand at that point in the melody.

Once you’ve chosen an accompaniment pattern that suits your level, apply it to each chord like this:

• When you see Em, play an E minor chord using your chosen pattern
• When you see A, play an A major chord
• When you see B, play a B major chord

👉 The letters tell you which chord to play, and the patterns show you how to play them.

Choose the pattern you’re most comfortable with, and use it consistently throughout the melody.

Patterns

Below are several accompaniment patterns you can use with the chords. They are arranged from the simplest to the most advanced.

Pick the one that best matches your current level — and feel free to experiment with more complex patterns as you progress!

Level 1: Root

Play just the chord root note.

Level 2: Blocked Chords

The chords are played as full blocks, all notes at once.

Level 3: Broken chord with alternating 3rd and 5th

This is a broken chord pattern that starts with the root note, then alternates between the third and fifth.

It follows this sequence: 1 – 5 – 3 – 5 – 3 – 5, creating a flowing and rhythmic left-hand accompaniment.

Level 4: Deep bass with layered chord tones

In this advanced pattern, the left hand plays the root note an octave lower to create more depth.

The right hand completes the chord by layering the melody note, followed by the fifth and third of the chord. This creates a spread voicing across both hands, adding richness and dimension to the accompaniment.

Here 3 examples: