Reading Piano Foot Pedal Commands

For many new pianists, self-taught ones in particular, practicing with the foot pedals is something that tends to be ignored -- sometimes flat-out avoided -- although the desire to perfect this skill is often expressed. The most common reason I hear is that they simply aren't used to or aware of the symbols that control pedal function in piano music. So, if you're new to pedals, start with the most popular one, the sustain:

• How to Read Sustain Pedal Marks