Chapter 1: Scales and Arpeggios
* Introduction: Importance of scales and arpeggios for technical development.
* Types of scales: Major, minor, chromatic, etc.
* Example: Exercise: Practice C major scale in different hand positions and tempos.
Chapter 2: Fingering and Articulation
* Fingering: Proper finger placement and sequencing for efficient playing.
* Articulation: Techniques to control the attack, duration, and release of notes.
* Example: Piece: J.S. Bach's "Bourrée" from the "French Suite." Focus on fingerings and detached articulation.
Chapter 3: Dynamics and Expression
* Dynamics: Variation in volume and intensity.
* Expression: Using dynamics to convey musical emotions.
* Example: Exercise: Practice Chopin's Etude No. 12 (Op. 25 No. 1) with contrasting dynamics to create shape and depth.
Chapter 4: Sight-Reading and Aural Skills
* Sight-Reading: Ability to play music at first sight.
* Aural Skills: Identifying pitch, rhythm, and harmony by ear.
* Example: Activity: Sight-read and clap rhythms from a variety of musical pieces.
Chapter 5: Harmony and Music Theory
* Harmony: Relationships between chords and their progressions.
* Music Theory: Basic principles of musical structure, including key signatures and time signatures.
* Example: Analysis: Examine the harmonic structure of a simple piece, such as "Happy Birthday."
Chapter 6: Ensemble Playing
* Ensemble: Playing with other musicians.
* Communication and Cooperation: Importance of listening and responding to each other.
* Example: Duet: Arrange and perform a simple piece with a partner, coordinating rhythm and dynamics.
Chapter 7: Performance Practice
* Performance Preparation: Includes practicing, planning, and managing performance anxiety.
* Stage Presence: Confidence and body language on stage.
* Example: Practice: Record yourself performing a piece and analyze your performance for areas of improvement.
Chapter 8: Historical Perspectives
* Music History: Overview of major musical eras and composers.
* Musical Styles: Influences and characteristics of different musical styles.
* Example: Presentation: Create a brief presentation on the life and works of a famous composer, such as Beethoven.
Chapter 9: Self-Assessment and Goal Setting
* Self-Assessment: Regularly evaluating progress and identifying areas for growth.
* Goal Setting: Establishing specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals.
* Example: Journaling: Keep a practice journal to track progress, set goals, and reflect on areas for improvement.
Chapter 10: Beyond Level 4
* Preparing for Higher Levels: Tips and strategies for advancing to more challenging pieces.
* Musical Maturity: Fostering a lifelong passion for music.
* Example: Listening: Explore more advanced piano repertoire by listening to recordings and attending concerts.
