Thu, 26 Dec 2024 03:14:02 GMT
Close ✕
This is a comprehensive step-by-step course specifically designed to suit the needs of all children beginning the piano. It includes work sheet pages which encourage the revision of new information and concepts.
John Thompson's Easiest Piano Course is a well-known and popular method for teaching piano to beginners. The book is divided into four parts, with each part covering different skills and techniques. In this summary, we will go through each part and their respective chapters, with a real-life example of how the method can be applied.
Part 1: Preparatory Level
Chapter 1: The Keyboard
The first chapter introduces the keyboard, its layout, and the basics of reading music. The book explains the names of the white and black keys, as well as their corresponding letter names and fingering. It also includes exercises to help students find and play the keys correctly.
For example, a teacher might use a keyboard illustration to introduce the layout of the keyboard to their student. They could then have the student play simple melodies using one finger on each hand, starting with the C key and moving both up and down the keyboard.
Chapter 2: Finger Numbers
This chapter focuses on identifying and using the fingers on each hand. It introduces the concept of finger numbers, with the thumb being finger 1 and the pinky being finger 5. The book also provides exercises for strengthening each finger, as well as simple songs to practice using all fingers.
For instance, a teacher may have the student place their hands on the keyboard, and then call out a finger number for the student to play. This can help the student to memorize the numbers and develop finger independence.
Chapter 3: Basic Rhythms
The third chapter covers basic note values and rhythms. The book starts with quarter notes and rests, and gradually introduces eighth notes. The exercises in this chapter focus on playing rhythms accurately and evenly.
A teacher may use clap-along exercises to help students internalize the rhythms and learn to count out loud while playing. They can also have the student practice playing simple melodies with different rhythms, to develop fluency and accuracy.
Chapter 4: Melodies
In this chapter, students are introduced to reading and playing simple melodies using both hands. The book includes songs that use only the white keys, making it easier for students to focus on the notes and finger movements.
For example, a teacher might have the student practice playing well-known nursery rhymes or folk songs, such as "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" or "Mary Had a Little Lamb." These familiar melodies can help students gain confidence in reading and playing music.
Chapter 5: C Major Scale
The fifth chapter introduces the C major scale, which uses all the white keys on the piano. The book teaches the scale in both hands and includes exercises to help students familiarize themselves with the pattern of whole steps and half steps.
A teacher could have the student practice playing the C major scale hands separately, and then gradually combine both hands to play the scale together. They can also have the student play the scale in different variations, such as ascending and descending or in different rhythms.
Chapter 6: Accompaniment Patterns
This chapter introduces simple accompaniment patterns for the left hand, using chord symbols. The book explains how to play broken chords and basic left-hand patterns to accompany a simple melody played with the right hand.
For instance, a teacher might have the student practice playing a broken C major chord pattern with their left hand while playing a C major scale with their right hand. This can help students develop coordination and understanding of harmony within a song.
Chapter 7: Playing with Both Hands
The final chapter of Part 1 brings together all the skills and techniques taught in the previous chapters. Students are encouraged to play simple songs using both hands, with the left hand playing accompaniment patterns and the right hand playing the melody.
For example, a teacher could have the student play a simple tune, such as "Hot Cross Buns," using both hands. The left hand would play a basic accompaniment pattern while the right hand plays the melody. This helps students apply what they have learned and develop their playing skills.
In conclusion, John Thompson's Easiest Piano Course offers a systematic and comprehensive approach to teaching piano to beginners. The method is designed to gradually introduce important skills and techniques, while also providing a balance between theory and practical application. The real-life examples mentioned above demonstrate how the method can be applied in a teaching setting, making it a valuable resource for both teachers and students.
