Nat King Cole, one of the most beloved popular pianists of the twentieth century, said that when he performed, it was “like sitting down at my piano and telling fairy stories.” Maybe you’d like to tell musical stories too. Or maybe you’ve wanted to learn a song like Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata” or “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen since they first gave you goosebumps. Maybe you’d love to accom- pany yourself while you sing, or even hope to write your own songs on the piano, just like Elton John, Tori Amos, and Billy Joel. Whatever your piano goals, you need to start at the beginning—right here!
Welcome to Level 1 in the Pianote Foundations. You can think of this book as the perfect combination of having a private teacher to guide you and a workbook that allows you to take your time and learn at your own pace. With a carefully designed curriculum that corresponds to the Pianote Foundations video lessons, this book contains everything you need to keep you engaged, inspired, and focused on the first steps of your journey towards playing the music you love. With the Pianote Foundations, you have ALL the information you need to be successful in reaching your musical goals. These books allow you to learn in the comfort of your own home, at your own pace.
In Level 1, you’ll find lesson material that presents each concept, plus some exercises that you’ll be asked to write out with a pencil on paper (yes, paper and pencil!), and others that will help you apply each concept at the piano. In this book, you will learn:
- The layout and geography of the piano
- The musical alphabet
- How to develop dexterity and independence in your fingers
- How to play your first scale
- How to play chords
- How to play your first chord progression
These first steps will present unique challenges as you develop brand new pathways in your brain and work to get your mind and your fingers cooperating with one another. Consistent practice, determi- nation, and a little sense of humor will help you achieve your goals. Have fun and enjoy the process! Like so much about learning, making it fun is individual—and unique to you. For example, in my life I’ve had to learn how to make practicing “fun” while my toddler joins in with his vocal and piano based contributions. While this can be really annoying, I’ve learned to view it as a great way to develop my focus in times of distraction. For you, fun might look like learning to laugh at your mistakes, getting up at the crack of dawn to practice in a quiet house, or serenading your loved ones with countless repetitions of piano scales.
Besides being fun, learning something new can also overwhelm you. But when approached in the step-by-step manner outlined here, your musical goals are achievable—and they might be much closer than you think. By following the material presented here, you’ll be well on your way to learning how to play the music you love on the piano.
As you make your way through the Pianote Foundations levels, you’ll start playing, understanding, and loving the piano faster than you dreamed possible. It’s no surprise that playing the piano is a lifelong pursuit for many people—after all, piano players are known for their dexterity, perseverance, and good looks, so who wouldn’t want to play piano? (Okay, I made up that last one, but you’re looking great!) You’re in good company, taking your first steps on an exciting, rewarding journey. Thank you for giving me and everyone here at Pianote the opportunity to guide you into your piano journey. Have fun!
