Me and My Piano: Piano Lesson 1

Author: (English) Walter Mann
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2007-01-01
Features: Piano beginner and elementary teaching materials
It can illustrate the author's teaching concept because the elementary teaching materials reflect a carefully thought-out and structured teaching process by the author, an attitude toward art, a method of technical training, and different teaching methods for beginners of various ages and characteristics. The renowned British piano educator Fanny Waterman and the pianist Marion Hauer co-authored a series of piano teaching materials. For children, there is "Me and My Piano," which includes 1, 2, 3, and two four-hand ensemble pieces. For general beginners, there is "Piano Lessons," divided into 1, 2, and 3 volumes. Although this series was published 40 years ago, it remains one of the most popular piano beginner teaching materials in the UK. The Walter Mann and Hauer 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 focus only on hands without engaging the mind. Music theory should be integrated into piano lessons from the beginning. Reinforce music theory through solving "monkey riddles."
2. Emphasis on building a solid technical foundation. Systematically learn scales and arpeggios, requiring proficiency. Technical training has clear objectives and scientific methods, making it interesting for children to practice.
3. The pieces in the are titled and vividly illustrated, aligning with children's characteristics. Tailor teaching to the child's ability, progress steadily without rushing, and lay 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 see noticeable progress during their learning.
5. Understand children's psychology, with encouragement as the primary approach. Grade each lesson, and reward outstanding performance with five-star ratings and incentives.
I recommend this piano teaching series 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 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, and making learning too dull, which leads to a lack of interest in children. I suggest piano teachers try this teaching method and experience its advantages. Don't always stick to old textbooks, and don't think it's too simple or childlike.
Perhaps the notes seem easy, and the progress is slow, but the knowledge children need to master is more comprehensive and solid, and the demands on teachers are much higher. I hope this series will be well-received by piano teachers across the country.