With piano sheet music, are you supposed to play the chord or the individual key?

Also, any tips on piano playing and the dreaded sheet music would be greatly appreciated!With piano sheet music, are you supposed to play the chord or the individual key?
Usually on piano music you play the notes shown. If they want you to play say three notes they will be joined. Chords are usually useful when playing an organ.





I think I have it right. But perhaps others know better.With piano sheet music, are you supposed to play the chord or the individual key?
It really depends what you actually mean!





If the chord is written out (ie. a group of different notes on the same beat), then play every note.


If its notation written above or below the stave (Am, G7 etc) then ignore it - its a guide for people playing along on guitar etc.





As far as tips for playing go, the most important one is simply practice, practice, practice.


Apart from that, my 'top 2' would be to use a metronome while you're learning tricky passages so you don't rubato it to death, and use the suggested fingerings - 99% of the time they DO make it flow better even if you don't think so to start with!
If the chord is written on the clef, you play the chord. If it a single note, you play it that way. There is one basic piano playing lesson: Practice, practice, practice.


Good luck.