Succeeding at the Piano™ type size: Preparatory Level Lesson and Technique Book FJH2051 (without CD) / 7.95 FJH2051CD (with CD) / 8.95 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. Recital Book FJH2052 (with CD) / 6.50 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. 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   Grade 1 Lesson and Technique Book FJH2056 / 7.95 FJH2056CD / 8.95 Grade 1 thoroughly reinforces all of the concepts and the six basic techniques from the Preparatory level. New concepts include: melodic and harmonic intervals; tempo markings; quarter, half, and whole rests; legato and staccato articulations; Treble C Position, G Position, D Position, and Bass G Position (starting a 4th below Bass C); musical form; half and whole steps; tonic and dominant; the natural sign; upbeats and accents; mp and mf dynamics. The terrific motivational music by multiple composers along with the pedagogically sound approach will provide students with continued success! Using the CD helps students learn and reinforce correct practice habits and provides students with an opportunity to play many of the pieces with a string quartet accompaniment (two violins, viola, and cello), recorded live! Theory and Activity Book FJH2058 / 6.50 The Grade 1 Theory and Activity Book reinforces the concepts taught in the Grade 1 Lesson and Technique Book by engaging students in writing, playing, rhythm, ear training, and special "Time to Compose" activities. The ear training activities assist students in recognizing rhythm and note patterns and include activities such as: "Follow the Leader"–where students listen to rhythms and clap/tap them back; and "Parrot Play"–where students listen to short melodic patterns or well-known songs and play them back. These creative and diverse activities keep students motivated! Recital Book FJH2057 (with CD) / 6.50 The Grade 1 Recital Book provides a wide range of repertoire that correlates to the Grade 1 Lesson and Technique Book. Students are taught a variety of styles from traditional folk songs, classical, and original music. The "Before playing" and "After playing" points develop musicianship, good practice habits, and excellent practice and listening skills. The CD provides a way for students to engage their ears and hear the pieces played musically and technically correct. When students engage their ears, they will make rapid progress both musically and technically. Students have the opportunity to play many of the pieces with a string quartet accompaniment (two violins, viola, and cello), recorded live! Merry Christmas Book FJH2059 / 4.95 Sticker Book FJH2060 / 5.95 Flash Card Friend FJH2121 / 5.95 Music By: Timothy Brown, Kevin Costley, Mary Leaf, Helen Marlais, and Kevin Olson   [ Home | Biography | Publications | Workshops | Recordings | Links ]