The Preparatory
level Lesson and Technique Book provides students with
material that is uniquely balanced musically and pedagogically, while
providing a perfect introduction to the piano by laying a strong
foundation to build upon. Reading, rhythm, technique, theory, ear
training, playing by ear, music history, composition, and wonderful
music by multiple composers are seamlessly integrated for a
well-balanced music curriculum.
Some of the
concepts covered in the Preparatory level Lesson and Technique Book
include: a natural and perfect hand position; a steady beat;
pre-reading and staff reading of notes from Bass C to Treble G; Guide
Notes Bass F, Middle C, and Treble G; quarter, half, dotted half, and
whole notes; intervals of a 2nd to a 5th; repeat sign; forte
and piano dynamics; two-note slurs; phrases; 8va; tie; Middle
C and C position.
In addition to
these concepts students learn six basic techniques in this level:
Finger,
hand, and arm position, correct body alignment,
posture, and a general well-being at the piano
The feeling of
arm weight–being able to feel the arm "letting go" and relaxing
Flexible wrists
Two-note slurs
Weight
transfer from one finger to the next
Rotation in
the hands, wrists, and arms
The CD for the Lesson
and Technique Book is innovative as well as educational.
Students learn how to form correct practice habits from the very
beginning as well as have the opportunity to play many of the pieces
with a string quartet accompaniment (two violins, viola, and cello),
recorded live!
Theory and
Activity Book FJH2053 / 6.50
Students will
engage in writing, playing, rhythm, and composing activities, while
reinforcing concepts such as notes, intervals, basic rhythms, and
musical terms and symbols from the Lesson and Technique Book.
Ear training activities include playing by ear which comprehensively
rounds out the students' piano curriculum. These fun-filled theory
lessons will lead the student on the path of musical discovery.
The Recital Book
is a terrific way for students to learn wonderful repertoire while
reinforcing the valuable concepts presented in the Lesson and
Technique Book. The pieces are engaging and exciting to play, and
are presented with artistic illustrations and fanciful lyrics to
stimulate students' imagination and creativity. Students will achieve
the greatest success when the Lesson and Technique Book is
used with the Recital Book and Theory and Activity Book
for a fun, well-rounded approach to learning music!
The CD for the Recital
Book allows students to hear piano music played well with
correct phrasing, dynamics, and inflection. When student's ears are
engaged, they will make rapid progress technically as well as
musically. Students also have the opportunity to play many of the
pieces with a string quartet accompaniment (two violins, viola, and
cello), recorded live!
Merry Christmas Book FJH2054 / 4.95
This beautiful
Christmas Book starts students with pre-reading pieces so even the
youngest students get a chance to play favorite Christmas music.
Students play pieces on the black keys, Middle C, and
"almost" Middle C position. The charming and colorful
activities presented throughout not only visually enhance this very
special Christmas book, but also reinforce the concepts learned in
the Lesson and Technique Book. Contents include: Jolly Old
Saint Nicholas; Up On the Housetop; Go, Tell It On the Mountain; Good
King Wenceslas; We Thee Kings of Orient Are; Deck the Halls; Jingle Bells
Sticker Book FJH2055 / 5.95
Flash
Card Friend FJH2120
/ 5.95
Music By:
Timothy Brown,
Kevin Costley, Mary Leaf, Helen Marlais, Edwin McLean, and Kevin Olson
The
Teacher's Guide Preparatory and Grade 1 Levels
The Teacher's Guide includes information on how Reading, Rhythm,
Technique, Music, Musicianship, and Theory in Succeeding
at the Piano® are seamlessly integrated to provide
a well-balanced music curriculum. This guide explains how
to teach both levels in a page-by-page format, and includes
teaching suggestions, practice steps, technique tips, and
music history tips. The guide also includes information on
how to use the CD’s and additional supplementary materials.
There is a “Commonly Asked Questions” section
as well as a section for parents called, “The Parent’s
Corner.”
The Teacher’s Guide is a
great resource on how to teach this innovative and creative
new method!
