Piano Basics: Mastering the Basics in Three Months

Author: Liu Tianli (Compiler)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-05-01
Features: Over the years, I have received numerous letters from friends across the country, hoping me to compile a piano self-teaching textbook that is easy to understand and concise yet effective. Due to my busy schedule with other teaching tasks, I have only now completed this book. I sincerely apologize to my friends for the delay. This is a piano textbook designed for beginners. When learning this textbook, please note the following tips:
This is a rapid-learning textbook, aiming for a "two birds with one stone" learning effect. It enables beginners to play pieces in the shortest time possible and build confidence. The principle of this textbook's arrangement is to achieve ideal musical effects with the simplest techniques, avoiding continuous difficulties or complications for beginners during the learning process.
To master improvisational accompaniment techniques, all pieces in this book use only two types of accompaniment: moving chords (chord tones played in sequence) and non-moving chords (chord tones played simultaneously). Mastering these two techniques will help you grasp the essence of improvisational accompaniment.
For ease of memory, pedal markings are not indicated in this book. When playing moving chord accompaniment, press the sustain pedal once per chord change, such as in "Long Lasting Friendship"; when playing non-moving chords, do not press the sustain pedal, as in "Dance of Youth."
Except for pieces with tempo markings, all others should be played at a moderate speed. During the practice phase, all pieces should be played slowly, with both hands' fingers and wrists remaining natural and relaxed.
On the piano, the finger numbering for both hands is the same: the thumb is 1, the index finger is 2, the middle finger is 3, the ring finger is 4, and the little finger is 5, all marked with Arabic numerals. When practicing, follow the fingerings strictly, as only fixed fingerings can lead to proficiency. Changing fingerings frequently will hinder mastery.
The order of pieces in this book is generally arranged based on their technical difficulty. During practice, you may make minor adjustments according to the pieces you are familiar with or prefer. The first three or four pieces should be practiced to a high level of proficiency before moving on. For example, spend ten days mastering each of the first three pieces, while subsequent pieces may take only one day each to master.
If you have any questions, suggestions, or requests during your learning process, please feel free to contact me to help improve the teaching methods.