Chord Piano is Fun! by, TK Goforth

If you want to learn how to play from lead sheets or need a refresher on keys, scales, and chord construction, this book is a great one for your library.  In the book, the keys of C , F, and G major and a, d, and e minor are thoroughly covered so that after the book is completed, you can transfer what you’ve learned to other keys.

This is not a book for young children or for those who become impatient with long explanations. There is, in fact, a lot of explanation to be read. Examples are presented both on and off the staff and each chapter includes opportunities to write and play. The author suggests that the instruction be followed in order, lesson by lesson, for best results.

One disappointment for me is the relatively small number of included songs on which to apply the chords. It is really up to you to find appropriate lead sheets to practice more advanced elements as they are learned. An appendix with lists of songs which use specific types of chords would be helpful.

Basic family chords plus inversions, 7th, 9th, 11th, diminished, augmented, and suspended chords are all included in this book. There are also chapters on writing your own song using a frame chart for the harmonies and playing the blues. Charts in the back of the book will definitely help when it is time to apply what you have learned to other keys. Overall, I think this book is very useful for older students, do it yourselfers, and teachers alike. Until December 15th it is offered at a 15% discount.

Goal Oriented Practice: by Gretchen Saatoff

I have already reviewed the first of the three, Goal Oriented Practice (see my review here). This is a great practical volume and Gretchen is currently running a 50% off shopping in your jammies sale!

Fundamentals of Piano Practice: by, Chuan C. Chang

Fundamentals of Piano Practice, is an exhaustive 270 page book of detailed practice instruction and advice. The stated goal is “to make the learning process so fast that we aim to allocate 10% of practice time to technical work and 90% to making music.” It is a free eBook

There is much advice and personal philosophy covered in this book. And, while you might not agree with everything, it is a great reference for classical students and teachers, as well as, for those in situations where a teacher is not close by. I found myself nodding and remembering teachers lessons from my teachers as I read this and I found some new ways to explain concepts to my students. As an added bonus, there is a 17 page chapter on how to tune your piano- my technician would definitely have several words to say about that!

Complete Beginners Guide to Practice: from How to Practice

This book is perfect for young musicians, as well as for teachers and avocational players of any age. There are practice techniques for all instruments included which is great for pianists when thrown into an unexpected coaching situation.

The book is divided into chapters on goals, practice space & tools, and the process of practice: Plan, Prepare, Warm-up, Focused Practice, Know When To Stop, and Review.  There are many useful charts and forms to print including a self assessment form, practice flow chart, guide to practice, practice plan and journal/diary. Included at the end of the book are some really useful sample practice sessions for different levels as well as a sheet of advice for parents and one for teachers.

The book is free once you register at the site.

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