Dear Mr. Chappell:

Is there some simple way to play the piano? It seems so complicated.

— Simplifier

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Dear Simplifier:

Actually, there is a lot to know, but it really boils down to this: to play the piano, put a finger on a key and push down. Then there is a corollary: And, at all times and to the maximum extent, touch the key in advance of putting it down.

You’d be surprised at how far just this bit of information will take you.

— J.C.