Chapter 1: Introduction and Basic Techniques
* Introduction to the piano keyboard and hand position.
* Real example: Simple scales and short melodies to practice fingering.
Chapter 2: Finger Exercises and Scales
* Major and minor scales in different inversions.
* Real example: The C major scale in the right hand, playing ascending and descending scales with proper fingering.
Chapter 3: Chords and Harmonies
* Basic chords (major, minor, diminished) and their inversions.
* Real example: Playing simple chord progressions, such as I-IV-V in the key of C major.
Chapter 4: Velocity and Accuracy
* Exercises to improve finger speed and precision.
* Real example: Rapid scales and arpeggios played with a metronome.
Chapter 5: Dynamics and Touch
* Varying volume and weight on the keys for expressive playing.
* Real example: Playing a melody with contrasting dynamics, such as forte and piano.
Chapter 6: Sight Reading and Ear Training
* Techniques for reading sheet music and recognizing melodies by ear.
* Real example: Sight-reading a simple piece of music with a clear rhythm and melody.
Chapter 7: Simple Pieces for Practice
* Short and easy pieces for applying learned techniques.
* Real example: "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" arranged for beginners, focusing on melody, rhythm, and basic chords.
Chapter 8: Transitions and Transpositions
* Moving smoothly between different keys and fingerings.
* Real example: Transposing a simple melody from the key of C to G major, maintaining the same fingering pattern.
Chapter 9: Creative Playing
* Encouraging students to improvise and explore their own musical ideas.
* Real example: Playing a simple chord progression and improvising a melody over it, using learned scales and chords.
Chapter 10: Performance and Interpretation
* Tips for performing pieces with confidence and expression.
* Real example: Selecting a prepared piece and giving a public performance, applying dynamics, phrasing, and musicality.
