The perfect complement to most piano method books, the Concepts of Piano Theory series offers a methodical introduction to music theory that is concise but still thorough, no-frills without being dry and boring. By expanding students' knowledge of theory (and of its application and usefulness), these books offer a firmer foundation for piano proficiency than those focusing primarily on technique or surface-level theory instruction. Students can work through each book on their own, though especially for younger students teacher guidance is preferable.
Music theory is highly logical, a fact often lost on beginners trying to wade through either abstruse texts they can't understand, or saccharine exercises only designed to give students a feeling of "achievement." Concepts of Piano Theory avoids both extremes, moving quickly through the fundamentals of the discipline and eliminating the intimidation students often experience in the face of such daunting, wondrous and arcane knowledge.
Originally published in the early 20th century and rewritten in 1996, this series is ideal for students participating in the syllabus exams of the Music Teachers National Association. You won't find a bunch of illustrations here (or animals telling kids where to put their fingers, or any of the nonsense that pops up regularly in other theory courses), just good old-fashioned piano theory for beginning and intermediate piano students.
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