A triplet is a rhythmic technique used to create interest. It will usually show 3 notes of the same value being covered with a bracket or slur with the number 3.

This number 3 does not indicate fingering, but a time element.

The triplet will see 3 notes of the same value being played in the time of 2 notes. Think of it as “squishing” in an extra beat where there would normally be only 2 beats.

This creates an almost rolling effect.

To do this well, it may be easiest to practise using 3 consecutive fingers and rolling them in a legato manner.

To play this exercise, use the chromatic fingering to help create a lilt in the melody.

Notice how the end of the first and second bars both use both the staccato and the accent sign. Bounce of these notes with some energy!

This exercise is a lot more challenging. Go through this piece hands separately before attempting to use both hands.

Be careful to shape the accent notes as well as the triplets. Watch out for the two normal quavers that use the 2 note slur!