Piano

The Piano is the most popular instrument played all over the world for many good reasons. First of all, it is important in almost every style of music – classical, popular, jazz, folk.

The piano can create full harmonies so doesn’t need another instrument playing with it to create ensemble playing. This is perfect, especially for people who don’t have the time or inclination to play in groups. But, at the same time, it can be played with other piano players in duets and trios or with other instruments in small and large groups.

The Piano is an excellent instrument for developing co-ordination as the hands and the fingers are used independently and both feel are also used at more advanced levels to operate the pedals. It also develops brilliant hand-eye co-ordination. It develops the brain, multitasking and concentration – when playing Piano, 2 lines of music are read at once along with playing with both hands, feet and listening to what you are playing. Because of this level of concentration, playing the piano is highly absorbing and has been proven to reduce stress levels, increase relaxation and improve mental health.

The Piano can be taken up at any age and beginner material is available from pre school ages. Books I recommend for starting off are:

For Children:

Piano Adventures by Nancy and Randall Faber – For the Young Beginner (Pre Reading) /Primer /Level 1A

John Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course Part One

Piano in Colour by Julia Tulloch (Pre Reading)

For Teenagers and Adults:

Piano Adventures by Nancy and Randall Faber- For the Older Beginner

John Thompson’s Adult Piano Course

The Classic Piano Course by Carol Barratt

It is possible to sit Grade exams on Classical Piano, Jazz Piano and Pop/Rock Keyboard. Here are links to information from the main Exam Boards:

https://gb.abrsm.org/en/our-exams/piano-exams/

https://www.trinitycollege.com/qualifications/music/grade-exams/piano/

https://www.trinityrock.com/instruments/keyboards