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Accelerated Piano Adventures for the Older Beginner


Synopsis


(Faber Piano Adventures ). Accelerated Theory Book 2 is divided into fifteen units, correlating with the fifteen units of Lesson Book 2. Each unit provides valuable reinforcement of basic theory concepts through writing, sightreading, and ear-training activities.

Nancy Faber (composer), Randall Faber (composer)

Summary

Chapter 1: Getting Started

* Introduces the basic elements of music notation, including the keyboard, notes, and rhythm.
* Provides simple exercises to develop finger coordination and hand position.

Example: Students learn to play the notes C, D, E, and G using the right-hand thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.

Chapter 2: Discovering Music

* Introduces basic musical concepts such as melody, harmony, and form.
* Explores different musical styles, including classical, folk, and jazz.

Example: Students play a simple melody in the key of C major and learn to identify the tonic and dominant chords.

Chapter 3: Playing with Both Hands

* Teaches students to coordinate both hands independently.
* Introduces basic left-hand patterns and scales.

Example: Students play a duet with the right hand playing the melody and the left hand providing a simple accompaniment.

Chapter 4: Rhythm and Style

* Focuses on developing rhythmic accuracy and expressive playing.
* Introduces basic rhythm patterns and syncopation.

Example: Students play a folk tune with a distinctive syncopated rhythm, using the "boom-chick" pattern.

Chapter 5: Chords and Harmony

* Explores different types of chords and their functions in music.
* Teaches students to build and play basic major and minor chords.

Example: Students play a pop song using simple chord progressions, such as I-IV-V (C-F-G).

Chapter 6: Playing Melodies

* Develops students' melodic skills through a variety of exercises and pieces.
* Introduces techniques such as legato, staccato, and dynamics.

Example: Students play a traditional Irish melody with expressive phrasing and ornamentation.

Chapter 7: Creative Expression

* Encourages students to explore their own creativity through improvisation and composition.
* Provides guidance on developing musical ideas and writing simple melodies and accompaniments.

Example: Students create their own short improvisations based on a given chord sequence.

Chapter 8: Performance and Technique

* Focuses on preparing students for performance and developing good technique.
* Covers topics such as posture, hand position, and pedaling.

Example: Students rehearse a piece for an upcoming recital and receive feedback on their technique and performance skills.

Chapter 9: Expanding Repertoire

* Introduces students to a variety of classical, folk, and popular pieces.
* Provides guidance on selecting and learning new repertoire.

Example: Students learn a simplified version of Beethoven's "Für Elise" or a traditional folk song, such as "Scarborough Fair."

Chapter 10: A Musical Bridge

* Bridges the gap between the Accelerated Piano Adventures series for older beginners and more advanced study.
* Reviews essential concepts and introduces new musical challenges.

Example: Students play a more complex piece in a minor key, using advanced techniques such as arpeggiation and cross-hand patterns.