The Classical Piano Method - Method Book 1: With CD of Performances and Play-Along Backing Tracks, Paperback

(Schott). The Classical Piano Method is ideal for adults and young people looking to learn the piano from scratch, or for those returning to the piano after a substantial break from playing. You will learn traditional, classic technique, and will be introduced to interesting, varied and well-known classical pieces right from the outset. The method is friendly and is carefully designed to progress in small manageable steps, beginning with simple fingering patterns and exercises, moving onto some of the most beautiful melodies and pieces from the baroque, classical and romantic eras: such as Ode to Joy, Fur Elise and the Blue Danube Waltz . The Method Book leads you through a range of exercises, repertoire pieces to learn, theory checks, clear instruction & diagrams on playing and technique, tips on practicing, and composer biographies. It also includes a CD so you can listen to all the pieces performed on a grand piano by a concert pianist, as well as some additional accompanying parts which you can use as play-along tracks. Learning is made interesting, informed and fun. Repertoire in Method Book 1 includes extracts and themes from: Peer Gynt Suite (Grieg) * Wedding March from Lohengrin (Wagner) * Eine kleine Nachtmusik (Mozart) * Symphony No. 6 (Beethoven) * Cancan from Orpheus in the Underworld (Offenbach) * Surprise Symphony (Haydn) * Barcarole from Tales of Hoffmann (Offenbach) * Spring from The Four Season (Vivaldi) * Ode to Joy (Beethoven) * Water Music (Handel) * The New World Symphony (Dvorak) * Symphony No. 1 (Mahler) * Swan Lake (Tchaikovsky) * Dream of Love (Liszt). "This method approaches piano instruction from the European standpoint of attaining piano proficiency and competent musicianship from the very beginning of piano lessons...The books are printed clearly on quality paper; each page is easily read with information and concepts logically presented."-- American Music Teacher