Is Ryan Gosling Really Playing the Piano in La La Land?

After its release, a common question circulating in the hearts of many La La Land fans was whether Ryan Gosling genuinely played the piano during the film's musical numbers. This article delves into the specifics and reveals the truth behind Ryan Gosling's remarkable piano performance in the movie.

The Authenticity of Ryan Gosling's Piano Skills

Ryan Gosling's decision to play the piano in La La Land was not a mere stunt; it was a testament to his dedication and love for music. To provide an authentic piano performance, Gosling underwent extensive training under the guidance of a professional piano teacher. He learned all the piano parts and executed them during the film's musical scenes. While the audience saw Gosling playing the piano, the audio was replaced with a professional pianist's recordings to maintain the quality and authenticity of the music.

Training and Preparation

Director Damien Chazelle aimed to avoid the classic Hollywood scene where an actor mimics playing the piano and then cuts to a professional. Thus, Gosling's training regimen was rigorous and demanding. He worked with a piano teacher for about 3-5 hours a day over an unspecified duration. Unlike a traditional beginner who learns to read sheet music, Gosling's teacher employed a unique method. She played the parts, and Gosling mimicked her performance, memorizing the music piece by piece, much like a choreographed dance sequence.

John Legend's Praise

John Legend, another musician involved in the film, was highly impressed by Gosling's rapid improvement. In an interview, Legend revealed that "he was jealous at how fast Ryan picked it all up." This statement highlights Gosling's natural talent and his ability to learn and perform under intense time constraints.

Playing vs. Recording

It is essential to understand that while Gosling was filmed playing the piano, the audio fed into the movie was from a professional pianist's recording. The visual and auditory elements were meticulously constructed to ensure viewers experienced the best of both worlds - authentic performance and flawless recorded music. This approach was sophisticated and aimed at maintaining the integrity of the film's musical score and overall aesthetic.

Conclusion

So, the answer to the age-old question is unequivocal: yes, Ryan Gosling did play the piano in La La Land. His commitment and hard work transformed what could have been a simulated scene into a truly remarkable on-screen performance. Fans of the film can take consolation knowing that the character of Sebastian, the jazz pianist, was portrayed accurately and authentically thanks to Gosling's dedication.

For those inspired by Gosling's journey and looking to improve their own piano skills, there are many resources available online. Simple, easy, and powerful tutorials can be found to guide you through the basics and beyond. Remember, dedication and hard work can lead to remarkable achievements, just like it did for Ryan Gosling in La La Land.