Keyboard Skills for the Practical Musician

Keyboard Skills for the Practical Musician is a textbook for undergraduate music majors in class piano courses. It provides techniques and fundamentals for developing essential keyboard skills such as reading, harmonization, improvisation, and accompaniment. The book is organized by skill and offers endless flexibility for instructors, guiding students in a step-by-step approach through the development of these skills. It includes over 400 sightreading, transposition, and score reading examples, 125 harmonization Melodies, project assignments, and a concluding Repertoire section with solo and duet music, ensemble arrangements, and additional pieces from various eras. The textbook emphasizes the importance of learning how to learn and is accessible and responsive to all class piano students and instructors.

Format: Hardback
Length: 396 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Keyboard Skills for the Practical Musician is a comprehensive textbook designed specifically for undergraduate music majors enrolled in class piano courses. Its primary objective is to equip these students with the techniques and fundamentals necessary to evolve into independent, versatile musicians capable of playing with confidence and sensitivity. Rather than focusing solely on levels, the textbook is organized by skill, offering endless flexibility for instructors while guiding students in a step-by-step approach to developing essential keyboard skills. These skills encompass various aspects such as reading music, harmonization, improvisation, and accompaniment, all of which are crucial for musicians across various genres.

One of the key features of Keyboard Skills for the Practical Musician is its extensive coverage of piano skills. The book includes over 400 sightreading, transposition, and score reading examples, along with 125 harmonization melodies. These examples provide students with practical exercises to develop their reading and musicality skills. Additionally, project assignments are included, which promote independent learning, expose students to new musical styles, and encourage collaboration. These assignments encourage students to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired in the textbook to create their own musical compositions and performances.

Another notable aspect of the textbook is its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The book includes a concluding Repertoire section that features solo and duet music, as well as 10 ensemble arrangements, 6 duets, and additional pieces from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Post-Romantic eras. This diverse range of music examples showcases the richness and versatility of the piano and encourages students to explore a wide range of musical styles. Moreover, the textbook includes numerous works by composers from marginalized backgrounds and from global folk music. By highlighting the contributions of these composers, Keyboard Skills for the Practical Musician aims to promote inclusivity and diversity in music education.

In addition to its practical features, Keyboard Skills for the Practical Musician emphasizes the importance of learning how to learn. The textbook explains the core elements of keyboard learning in an accessible and responsive format, while also accentuating the significance of developing a lifelong love for music. It encourages students to approach their keyboard studies with curiosity, perseverance, and a willingness to experiment and explore.

Overall, Keyboard Skills for the Practical Musician is an essential resource for all class piano students and instructors. Its comprehensive coverage of piano skills, diverse music examples, emphasis on learning how to learn, and inclusive approach make it a valuable tool for developing musicians of all backgrounds and levels. Whether students are aspiring pianists, music educators, or simply enthusiasts, this textbook provides the foundation and guidance needed to excel in the world of piano performance.

Weight: 916g
Dimension: 280 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367517472