Piano Theory Workbook

Synopsis

(Educational Piano Library). Hal Leonard Student Piano Library mascots Spike, Party Cat and friends guide the student through fun, creative assignments that introduce the language of music and its symbols for sound, silence, and rhythm. Ear training and basic theory exercises help students learn to write and play the music they are learning as well as the music they create themselves. This book correlates directly to Piano Lessons Book 2.

Summary

Chapter 1: Basic Concepts and Notation

This chapter introduces the fundamental elements of piano theory, including:

* The piano keyboard and its layout
* Staff and clef notation
* Note values and rhythms (e.g., whole notes, half notes, quarter notes)
* Time signatures (e.g., 4/4, 3/4)

Example: Learn the names of the white and black keys and identify the notes on a staff in the key of C major.

Chapter 2: Scales and Intervals

This chapter covers the construction and identification of scales and intervals:

* Major and minor scales (e.g., C major, A minor)
* Intervals (e.g., seconds, thirds, fifths)
* Circle of fifths

Example: Construct a C major scale and identify the intervals between the notes.

Chapter 3: Triads and Chords

This chapter explores the formation and types of chords:

* Triads (e.g., major, minor, augmented)
* Seventh chords (e.g., dominant seventh, minor seventh)
* Chord inversions

Example: Create a C major triad and its three inversions.

Chapter 4: Rhythm and Meter

This chapter focuses on understanding and manipulating rhythm:

* Types of notes and rests
* Rhythm patterns (e.g., syncopation)
* Note duration and tempo

Example: Write a rhythmic exercise in 4/4 time with a variety of notes and rests.

Chapter 5: Harmony and Progression

This chapter explores the principles of harmony and chord progressions:

* Cadences (e.g., authentic, plagal)
* Chord sequences
* Harmonic analysis

Example: Analyze the following chord progression: I-IV-V-I (in the key of C major).

Chapter 6: Form and Analysis

This chapter introduces basic musical forms and how to analyze music:

* Common musical forms (e.g., sonata, rondo)
* Analysis of melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic elements
* Identifying musical themes and motifs

Example: Analyze the form of a simple piano piece, identifying its main sections and themes.

Chapter 7: Instrumentation

This chapter provides an overview of the different instruments used in classical music and their specific characteristics:

* String instruments (e.g., violin, cello)
* Woodwind instruments (e.g., flute, clarinet)
* Brass instruments (e.g., trumpet, tuba)
* Percussion instruments

Example: Describe the role of the piano in a typical symphony orchestra.