logo Sat, 03 May 2025 22:19:58 GMT

Bastien Piano Basics: Piano Level 2


Synopsis


Piano is the main lesson book in the Bastien Piano Basics course. The carefully graded, logical learning sequence assures steady, continual progress. Original music by the Bastiens includes a stimulating mixture of pop, folk, classical, and contemporary styles. Full-color illustrations throughout entertain and reinforce musical concepts along the way. The gradual multi-key approach takes students through all 12 keys -- 3 in each of Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4. Each page is carefully correlated page-by-page with Theory, Performance, and Technic. All in all, a dynamic way to introduce students to the marvelous world of music!

James Bastien

Summary

Chapter 1: Rhythm and Note Values

* Introduction to different note values (whole, half, quarter, eighth)
* Practice playing simple rhythms with a metronome
Example: Playing a quarter note and a half note rhythm (ta-a)

Chapter 2: Scales and Fingerings

* Fingerings for the C major scale
* Exercises for practicing fingerings and scale patterns
Example: Playing the C major scale with proper fingerings

Chapter 3: Intervals and Chords

* Introduction to musical intervals (seconds, thirds, fifths)
* Construction of basic chords (major and minor triads)
Example: Playing a C major triad (C-E-G)

Chapter 4: Song Application

* Applying rhythmic, scale, and chord concepts in simple songs
* Introduction to the concepts of musical form and phrasing
Example: Playing "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" with basic fingerings and rhythms

Chapter 5: Dynamics and Articulations

* Introduction to dynamic markings (forte, piano)
* Practice techniques for different articulations (legato, staccato)
Example: Playing a melody with varying dynamics and articulations

Chapter 6: Sight Reading and Ear Training

* Introduction to sight reading and its importance
* Exercises for developing basic ear training skills
Example: Sight reading a simple melody and identifying a short musical pattern

Chapter 7: Cadences and Progressions

* Understanding the role of cadences in musical phrasing
* Practice identifying common chord progressions
Example: Playing a I-IV-V-I cadence (C major - F major - G major - C major)

Chapter 8: Ornamentation and Embellishments

* Introduction to basic ornamentation (trills, turns)
* Practice techniques for incorporating embellishments into melodies
Example: Playing a melody with a simple trill or a turn

Chapter 9: Duet and Ensemble Playing

* Basics of duet and ensemble playing
* Exercises for developing coordination and listening skills
Example: Playing a simple duet with another pianist or an instrumentalist

Chapter 10: Performance Techniques

* Introduction to proper posture and hand position
* Tips for practicing effectively and efficiently
* Stage etiquette and performance preparation
Example: Practicing a piece with focused repetitions and technical exercises