Me and My Piano - Piano Lesson Introduction (Book 1)

Author: (English) Waterman / (English) Heywood Ed. / Zhou Yuying / Zhou Guangren
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2005-04-01
Features: Piano beginner and elementary teaching materials It can explain the teaching concepts of the compilers, as the elementary teaching materials reflect the authors' meticulously thought-out and structured progressive teaching steps, an attitude towards art, a method of technical training, and different teaching methods for beginners of different ages and characteristics. The renowned British piano educator Fanny Waterman and the pianist Marion Heywood collaborated to compile a series of piano teaching materials. For children, there is "Me and My Piano," which includes 1, 2, 3, and two four-hand piano pieces. For general beginners, there is "Piano Lessons," divided into 1, 2, and 3 volumes. Although this teaching material was published 40 years ago, it remains one of the most popular piano beginner teaching materials in the UK. The Waterman & Heywood piano series has the following distinctive features:
1. Through learning the piano, one steps into the world of music, learns the language of music, understands its meaning, and thus loves and appreciates music. Therefore, teaching children piano should not just involve hands without minds. Music theory should be integrated into piano lessons from the beginning. Reinforce music theory knowledge by solving "monkey riddles."
2. Emphasis on building a solid technical foundation. Systematically learn scales and arpeggios, requiring proficiency. The purpose of technical training is clear, and the methods are scientific, making practice interesting for children.
3. The pieces in the are titled and vividly illustrated, aligning with children's characteristics. Tailored to children's abilities, teaching should proceed steadily without rushing, focusing on building a strong foundation.
4. The provides specific instructions for teachers, parents, and students, clearly explaining what each should do. With clear roles and close coordination among all parties, students will show noticeable progress during their learning.
5. Understanding children's psychology, encouragement is the primary approach. Each lesson is graded, and outstanding performers receive five-star ratings and rewards.
I recommend this piano teaching material because it offers many aspects we can learn from in piano teaching methods. It can also address some incomplete and unscientific teaching approaches in our country's piano popularization education, such as focusing only on finger movements without teaching music comprehension and expression; rushing through levels without a gradual progression; ignoring children's characteristics, making learning too dull and causing them to lose interest, etc. I suggest piano teachers try this teaching method and experience its advantages. Don't always stick to old, and don't think it's just for children—it's too easy. Perhaps the notes seem simple, and the progress is slow, but the knowledge children need to master is more comprehensive and solid, and the requirements for teachers are also much higher. I hope this teaching material will be well-received by piano teachers across the country.