Technique for the Advancing Pianist (Alfred Masterwork Editions) [Paperback] Review

Technique for the Advancing Pianist [Paperback]I use this book for all my students who wish to pursue piano studies at a higher level, particularly those who will become piano performance majors in college. It truly is essential for the advancing pianist because many technical difficulties one encounters throughout Mozart, Beethoven, and some Chopin (and of course, many more composers) is learned here, such as scales in double thirds, rotation, and velocity. Work through every single page and you're well on your way to starting more advanced work in college.

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Product Description:
This practical resource provides foundational tools for scale, chord and arpeggio playing; exercises for developing precision, speed, agility and clarity of tone; and exercises and etudes that focus on a variety of technical challenges.

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Richard Rodgers Classics: The Phillip Keveren Series [Paperback] Review

Richard Rodgers Classics: The Phillip Keveren Series [Paperback]As a church organist/pianist, I was looking for some music just for me to play at home - to enjoy.I first became aware of these books when shopping locally at a music store (Keveren also has leveled series for easier piano (think kids) which as a piano teacher and mom have been very well received.)I recommend the piano solo series to other pianist friends - describing the books as well put together volumes that are fun to play.Most of the pieces are a few pages in length.If you are at the late intermediate level, they may take some time to work up.If you are accustomed to playing advanced music, a few times through and you can probably sight read many of the pieces.I have purchased many of the other books in this piano solo level, and I think this is one of the more challenging books in the series (compared to the Irish, hymn collection, patriotic, folk music) - because of some of the octave intervals / rhythm combinations.This is a composer's name I look for when I do my music shopping for myself and my students.

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Product Description:
In honor of the Richard Rodgers centennial celebrations, this new collection features 17 of his all-time classics, tastefully arranged for piano solo by Phillip Keveren: Climb Ev'ry Mountain * Edelweiss * Falling in Love with Love * Hello, Young Lovers * I Whistle a Happy Tune * Isn't It Romantic? * My Funny Valentine * People Will Say We're in Love * Shall We Dance? * Some Enchanted Evening * The Sound of Music * You'll Never Walk Alone * and more.

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The Contemporary Keyboardist and Expanded (Instructional) [Plastic Comb] Review

The Contemporary Keyboardist  and Expanded [Plastic Comb]John Novello is an amazing musician.Having a book that gives insite into his approach would be quite valuable all by itself, but he has put together a very comprehensive work that is a must have for any musician looking to expand his/her knowledge and abilities.In this modern age where the electronic keyboard provides the easiest access to the world of instrumentation, as a songwriter/arranger I find John's Contemporary Keyboardist to be an essential reference, especially as my main instrument is the guitar.

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Product Description:
This comprehensive, 562-page method, called "Solid, readable and relevant" by Keyboard magazine and "The major work for today's pianists" by International Musician, is divided into four sections. The first, "A Philosophy of Music," deals with communication, cause-effect principles and practice disciplines. The second section, "Mechanics," covers all the basics of keyboard music and playing (notation, harmony, improv, sight reading, etc.), as well as their applications. The third section, "The Business Scene," contains guidelines and industry advice for contemporary keyboardists. Section four, "Interviews," provides insights into the artistry and technique of famous players such as Herbie Hancock, Henry Mancini, Edgar Winter, Keith Emerson, Paul Shaffer and many more. Includes an index.

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Music for Little Mozarts: Lesson Assignment Book [Paperback] Review

Music for Little Mozarts: Lesson Assignment Book [Paperback]This "Lesson Assignment Book" is a great way to stay organized with your child's piano lessons. It can be used with Levels 1 -4 of the "Music for Little Mozarts" series.

There are 32 lesson "Assignment" pages that span two pages each (eight months of weekly lessons!). It tracks the lesson number, day, date and time (this is a great feature for parents who need to keep track of when to pay the teacher next!), and when the next lesson is. There is a homework section that uses the Lesson Book, Music Workbook, Discovery Book and Other (great for Recital Book). There is a "New" and "Review" column for each lesson book used. Next is a days of the week tracker for recording practice time in minutes. For teachers, there is space for evaulating that day's lesson and comments. Parents are also given comment space. At the end, there is work space for the child with a printed keyboard and music notation lines.

The end of book has space for "My Favorite Pieces" and "Music I Have Performed."

This is an inexpensive way to stay organized while your child learns piano. We have enjoyed it thoroughly!

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Product Description:
The Music for Little Mozarts Lesson Assignment Book is designed to allow the teacher to write the student's assignment, using a minimum of lesson time.Using a two-page format, the book can accommodate assignments for 32 lessons.Additional spaces are provided to record practice time, evaluate each lesson, facilitate written instructions both from the parents to the teacher and from the teacher to the parents as well as work spaces for students that include a keyboard and staff.Special evaluation forms are also included.

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Everybody's Perfect Masterpieces: Alfred Masterwork Edition [Paperback] Review

Everybody's Perfect Masterpieces: Alfred Masterwork Edition [Paperback]This is great for beginners. My son 3 1/2 (autistic)can play 5 pieces from this book. Great accomplement to the Suzuki method.

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Product Description:
Graded piano recital repertoire in four volumes, edited by Carole Bigler and Valery Lloyd-Watts. Each volume includes a rich selection of the works of the greatest masters from all eras. Book 1 repertoire is sequenced so that it would range from Levels 1-3 of piano methods.

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Essential Keyboard Repertoire: Sonatinas [Audio CD] Review

Essential Keyboard Repertoire: Sonatinas [Audio CD]This book was recommended to me by my piano teacher, and I have found it to be full of excellent selections. The Clementi Sonatinas are some of the best beginner Sonatinas available, and are standard for piano repertoire. The Kabalevsky (Op. 13, No. 1) is a great modern piece that is a lot of fun to play.

For the price, you'll have a lot of challenging material to work with. The pieces are arranged essentially chronologically, with a good range of composers.

It's annoying to me when Amazon does not list pieces included, so I will list them here:

Franz Joseph Haydn
Sonatina in G Major, H. XVI, No. 8
Sonatina in C Major, H. XVI. No. 7

Muzio Clementi
Sonatina 1, Op. 36, No. 1
Sonatina 4, Op. 36, No. 4
Sonatina 6, Op. 36, No. 6
Sonatina in F Major, Op. 38, No. 3

Anton Diabelli
Sonatina in F Major, Op. 151, No. 3
Sonatina in C Major, Op. 151, No. 4
Sonatina in G Major, Op. 168, No. 2

Friedrich Kuhlau
Sonatina No. 1 in C Major, Op. 20, No. 1
Sonatina No. 1 in C Major, Op. 55, No. 1
Sonatina No. 3 in C Major, Op. 55, No. 3
Sonatina, Op. 88, No. 4

Cornelius Gurlitt
Sonatina 1, Op. 54, No. 1

Bela Bartok
Sonatina, Sz 55

Dmitri Kabalevsky
Sonatina, Op. 13, No. 1

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Product Description:
The audio compact disc companion to the 152-page collection of 16 early- to late-intermediate sonatinas compiled by Lynn Freeman Olson and edited by Martha Hilley (item #505) that includes works by Haydn, Clementi, Diabelli, Kuhlau, Gurlitt and Bartók.With a helpful introduction that contains practice suggestions, this edition effectively guides students through the important elements of the sonatina, including rapid finger work, varying tempo and the understanding of music construction. The compact disc features performances by pianist Kim O'Reilly. Note: You can purchase the Book and CD together using item #16776.

Kim O'Reilly Newman holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Illinois. She has performed throughout North America and Europe with the Hambro Quartet of Pianos and was an editor and recording pianist for Alfred Publishing. Kim is a brain tumor survivor and now specializes in performing music for the left hand.

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The Great Piano Works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Belwin Edition: The Great Piano Works of) [Paperback] Review

The Great Piano Works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart [Paperback]I purchased this item because I wanted to see suggested fingerings for some of the Mozart sonatas. The review says "The pieces include fingerings ". This is not exactly true. About a 3rd of the easier pieces have fingerings; the harder ones do not. The size of the music is large print, which is good for baby boomer eyes, but the quality is very poor and inconsistent from piece to piece. Smudged and blurry in places. The binding is of the type which, with a little use, will probably break into pieces. If you like this kind of challenging piano music, spend more on quality and don't buy this 'low budget' (i.e. low quality) product.

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Product Description:
The piano music of the Viennese Classical master Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is the focus of this book. The selections represent many of his Sonatinas, Minuets, Sonatas, and Variations, as well as a few shorter works from his vast repertoire. The pieces include fingerings and expression marks for a perfect performance. The selections cover a variety of Mozart's writing styles and feature works from his younger years to later in his life. 36 selections on 176 pages.

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Casio AP24 Digital Home Piano Review

Casio AP24 Digital Home PianoThis is a great piano for a new student. Overall price/performance is great. It feels a lot like a real piano. Of course, an experienced pianist can feel a difference, but the main goal with buying this instrument was not to spend tons of money and still get a decent piano.
Another great thing about this digital piano is a headphone jack. This is one of the most important advantages of the digital pianos (for those who have to listen :-). Even though we bought this piano for my daughter, I also play it at night using headphones.
The bottom line is if you need to practice playing piano, but don't want to spend a lot of money - this is your best bet. I searched other Web sites, but this one was the best deal.

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Product Description:
LEADSINGER model LS-3700 (or LS-3000) is a Portable, Hand-held, All-In-The-Mic Karaoke Player. The device connects to the user's TV / Stereo System and provides Lyrics on screen for 300 built-in popular songs. The device allows the user to adjust mic volume, music volume, guide melody, guide musical instrument, key pitch, speed tempo, echo, scoring, & a fun-filled random play Singing Game.
Included contents are: LS-3700 with 300 built-in songs, main cable, song list book, & AC adapter.
Optional items include: High-Fidelity Wireless Remote Duet microphone, Carrying Bag, & a wide variety of 20+ Song Cartridges.

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Nocturnes and Barcarolles for Solo Piano [Paperback] Review

Nocturnes and Barcarolles for Solo Piano [Paperback]Of course pianists should have this wonderful book, just don't assume it's complete.Fauré actually wrote a thirteenth Nocturne (in B minor) and a thirteenth Barcarolle (in C major), neither of which is included here.Both of these are characteristic late Fauré, but the Nocturne #13 is particularly not to be missed.I was just playing it over tonight and was amazed by the dark drama of the music.It's as Fauré's biographer Jessica Duchen said, that it seems to stare death in the face.
Both the Nocturne #13 and the suave, tranquil Barcarolle #13 are available individually from Masters Music Publications, and I would suggest that pianists supplement this book with both of those works to make a complete set of Fauré's nocturnes and barcarolles.

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Product Description:
The music of Gabriel Fauré (1845-1924) is an important link between the innovations of late Romanticism and the experimentation of the early 20th century. A student of Saint-Saëns, he, in turn, taught Ravel and was a mentor to the young modernists of Les Six. These 12 nocturnes and 12 barcarolles, composed over a span of 40 years, document his move from Romanticism to the frontiers of 20th-century music. Reprinted from authoritative French editions.


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Selected Songs Without Words (Piano Masters Series) [Paperback] Review

Selected Songs Without Words [Paperback]Good study book.Large print.Easy to read.Not the best selection of compositions, but several are nice to play.

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Product Description:
We proudly add this collection of Mendelssohn songs to our highly respected Piano Masters Series. From his fifty songs in the complete set we have selected twelve of the most often taught and performed pieces, spanning all opus numbers in the set. This new collection offers a wide variety of writing styles to help introduce this composer to your students.

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Sonatas, Vol. 1: Nos. 1-15 (Urtext Edition, for Piano) [Paperback] Review

Sonatas, Vol. 1: Nos. 1-15 [Paperback]In a snobby music world, where editions like Durand and Henle are too quickly deemed top dog, it's very nice to be able to find an edition like this one for so cheap.It's the urtext, so one has a lot more confidence in this edition than say, the Schirmer edition.(NEVER buy a Beethoven Schirmer if you ever want to play REAL Beethoven!)
Beethoven is always a joy, and the top sonata in this volume is the Pastorale, of course!Get volume 2 if you want to enjoy op. 78 (a favorite) and the Waldstein.

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Product Description:
A collection of advanced piano sonatas by Ludwig van Beethoven, urtext edition.

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Basic Principles in Pianoforte Playing [Paperback] Review

Basic Principles in Pianoforte Playing [Paperback]Anyone listening to Josef Lhevinne's thirds etude by Chopin (op 25/6) willtestify that he's got a wealth of technique, brilliance, and amazing tone.In his encompassing yet concise book he attempts to portray is very artisicbeliefs to the reader. This book will help even the most advanced pianist,and the ideas presented are very clear and easy to understand. Lhevinnespares no effort to decorate his book with extensive excerpts by famouscomposers, mainly Chopin, Rubinstein, Liszt and Schumann. A recommendedread for all pianists and anyone who enjoys listening to this greatinstrument. The book is relevant to all pianists regardless of level.

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Product Description:
Great modern teacher and pianist's concise statement of principles, technique, and related material. Includes 10 musical examples.


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Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18 (Kalmus Edition) [Paperback] Review

Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18 [Paperback]Rachmaninoff is a must for an aspiring pianist. Especially, the second piano concerto which is one of his famous if not the most famous pieces. I would suggest going out and reading some background information onRachmaninoff before trying to interpret the piece.

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Product Description:
One of the most played piano pieces and Sergei Rachmaninoff's most recognizable. A duet for two pianos/four hands.

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LP-350 Home Digital Piano Review

LP-350 Home Digital PianoSOUND AND FEATURES: 4.5 STARS

Let's get this out of the way--Korg designged an excellent sounding piano.You should compare this with the less expensive Yamaha Arius YDP-S31 if you want to make an apples to apples comparison.They are similar in features.I've little doubt that they are made from the same components somewhere in China.We don't plan on doing any producing on the piano, although we have entertained using the MIDI controller for some computer learning tools for our children.The only feature that I absolutely have to have is the volume control.It has one.

The sound of the piano is rich and authentic.I am not a piano player at all (I can, however, appreciate sound fidelity), but my wife is--she learned on an old acoustic and has played on dozens of different types and brands and understands the feel and sound of a good piano (and organ).She finds it more than acceptable in terms of simulating the playing of an acoustic piano.As my children learn to play, we are more than confident as their skills progress that they will be able to transition to the authentic acoustic pianos without having to relarn the weight, feel and sound of them.

DESIGN AND BUILD: 2.5 STARS

I assembled it myself in under 30 minutes.Piece of cake.I was mostly disappointed in the finish--I had assumed that it would be a glossy black- it is not.It's a matte black and silver, a thin easily chipped paint that covers medium density fiberboard.The frame isn't as sturdy as I would like it, and not as attractive as Korg makes it out to be.For a piano that is supposed to be a decorative accent that suits a particular lifestyle (read more expensive), I was expecting a higher quality build.

Which brings me to my other problem.The Hammer Weighted keys.When I assembled the piano and took the securing tape off of the cover, I noticed that the three top keys were out of kilter.I'm not talking the out of kilter you usually find on traditional string and hammer pianos, where the lighter keys offer a looser play, the keys were literally rattling around in the frame.I requested a replacement.OVERAL PURCHASING EXPERIENCE 1.5 STARS

The 1.5 Stars is for the inital sale there is no redeeming quality about the rest of my purchasing experience.The price is excellent. My biggest gripe, of course is that I still don't have the piano.After returning it to be replaced,the piano went on back order.It's been on backorder for a month and then the store (name redacted) will start shipping the pianos out.The first time they estimate they will receive the piano will be February 5, one month and two weeks since I requested a return, and almost three months since I initially ordered it.My family loved the piano for the one week that it stood in our home, but I have to say that I'm less than thrilled about the fact that I haven't been able to enjoy a piano that I paid almost a thousand dollars for due to the shoddy manufacturing process that caused me to send it back even before I had the chance to enjoy it.

TOTAL SATISFACTION: SOMEWHERE AROUND 3 STARS

The sound and features bring this back up to average.Without the excellent sound and feel of this piano, you would definitely be looking at another piano.The SP-250 seems to be this piano's sibling in terms of features.A little more work on the manufacturing process could go a long way.Who knows?Maybe the delays in the ordering are to increase the quality of the build for customers.I tend to doubt that, as the more rushed someone is to produce something, the more mistakes they usually make.

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Product Description:
The LP-350 digital piano is pleasing to both the ears - and the eyes! At less than 11 inches deep, the modern slim-line styling is space-saving and efficient, and designed to visually complement nearly any living space. When not in use, the thoughtf...

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Timeless Hymns with Ageless Classics (Sacred Performer Collections) [Paperback] Review

Timeless Hymns with Ageless Classics [Paperback]Marilynn Ham has been writing arrangements of hymns and sacred songs for years and is very good indeed.Some are quite difficult, but they fit the hands well and can be mastered with a little practise.Highly recommended.Marilynn's arrangements are always interesting and satisfying.She has the knack.This set puts various hymns into settings used in well-known classical pieces and is well done.

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Product Description:
Timeless Hymns with Ageless Classics is an expressive collection in which each arrangement merges a well-loved hymn with a classical theme. Pianists who enjoy performing either sacred or classical music will enjoy how each beautiful melody complements the other. This inspired collection for advanced pianists can be used in a variety of church settings as well as for personal enjoyment. It is also suitable for weddings since it includes many classical pieces that are traditionally used for wedding preludes and processionals.

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Piano Masterpieces of Maurice Ravel [Paperback] Review

Piano Masterpieces of Maurice Ravel [Paperback]I give this book 5 stars because it is the cheapest way to own the best editions of Ravel's greatest masterpieces for piano.The last reviewer is correct in stating that these are reprints of the original french editions, but those editions remain the best since there currently exists no critical or scholarly editions of ravel's piano works.The Dover edition even corrects some errors that existed in the original editions.The last reiviewer likes Nancy Bricard's editions (and other editions published by Alfred edited by Maurice Hinson) but I think Nancy Bricard got a little too happy when she got access to Ravel's manuscript, and purposefully included obvious errors into the score, including a footnote explaining that it's an error, instead of just correcting it.Alfred can hardly be trusted for scholarly editing, so for now, this edition remains the best buy.

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Product Description:
Handsome, affordable treasury of outstanding works by French master: Pavane pour une infante defunte, Jeux d'eau, Sonatine, Miroirs, Menuet antique, Gaspard de la nuit, more. Influential works belong in the repertoire of every serious pianist.


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Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith (Piano Solos) [Paperback] Review

Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith [Paperback]Film composer extraordinaire John Williams closes out the Star Wars saga on a good note (no pun intended). Those who currently own other Star Wars sheet music will notice that this book includes previously published pieces such as "The Force Theme" and "End Title/Credits". However, the hauntingly sorrowful "Anakin's Dark Deeds" and the fast paced Maestoso "Battle of the Heroes" in orchestration take the viewer on an emotional roller coaster that has "Duel of the Fates" like intensity. This book, written for piano solo, is a farily accurate representation of the soundtrack. However, you will find that some of the pieces are not in their original key and require tranposition to be played along with the soundtrack. For a fan of John Williams or Star Wars, this is a book worth having in your collection.

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Product Description:
Piano Solo arrangements from the last episode of the Star Wars series. The book also contains 8 pages of color art from the motion picture. This is a must for all Star Wars fans, a true collectable! Printed on special paper stock. 9"X12".

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Mozart 21 of His Most Popular Pieces: Alfred Masterwork Edition [Paperback] Review

Mozart 21 of His Most Popular Pieces: Alfred Masterwork Edition [Paperback]The Alfred Masterworks Editions are my favorite piano music books. I've been playing the piano for about 20 years, and these are the best series of books I've used. They have very good, clear notations, the arrangements are really well presented and put together, the fingering recommendations are the best I've seen (with the little numbers by the notes), and the biographical information and performance recommendations are a nice touch.

I only wish they had more books in the series.

This Mozart book is a good starter for someone who hasn't played Mozart before, and is looking to get better acquainted with his music.

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Product Description:
Some of Mozart's most popular works are contained in this volume, including the "Fantasia in D Minor," the "Sonata in C Major" (first movement) and the "Turkish March" from the Sonata in A Major. Other selections include intermediate-level transcriptions from operas and orchestral works. Arranged in the order of difficulty, each piece is prefaced by a short description. A biographical sketch of the composer is also provided.

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Williams Symphony Elite Digital Piano Review

Williams Symphony Elite Digital PianoMy 8 year old son has been taking piano lessons for almost 2 years and has a real talent for it.His piano teacher uses a Casio keyboard that has a foot pedal attached.She kept advising me that he needed a pedal for his keyboard to sustain notes.His Casio "Magic Light" keyboard was purchased 10 years ago as a birthday present for my husband (which he never used). It works great, but doesn't support a foot pedal.Also, the cheaper keyboards do not duplicate the "hammer-action" weighted response of keys on a real piano.Lastly, a full-size keyboard is 88 keys, but ours had only 60 something. I was having a discussion with his piano teacher as to my options.Buying a new piano was out of the question; we're talking 10-20 thousand dollars.However, you can purchase second hand pianos for a few thousand dollars, or "adopt" a used piano for nothing but the cost of having it delivered.A guitar teacher overheard us and offered a wonderful alternative: a digital piano.As he said, "It looks like a real piano, it sounds like a real piano, but it doesn't cost as much as a real piano."He advised us to visit a Cafe next store which had a digital piano in the back.We did, and it was a Yamaha digital piano.It had a brown wood finish and an understated beauty.I immediately was excited and would have gone out that day to buy one.My son was not equally excited, however.It did not look like a real piano to him (which he still wanted).I went online and looked at other brands of digital pianos and noticed the "Williams Symphony Elite Digital Piano."My son was hooked when he saw this one.It looks very much like a real piano.I purchased it online (it costs $899 at virtually any site you order it from).There are two other models: the Williams Console digital piano, which looks to be a regular digital piano with no bells and whistles and it looks like black wood; the next level one is the Williams Overture 88-key digital piano.It has all sorts of digital effects and also has the black wood.The Williams website compares the "Overture" model and the "Symphony Elite" model as the difference between driving a Cadillac and a Bentley. You're paying a few hundred extra for the glossy black finish, more digital effects, etc.Not knowing much about the technical details, I decided to go with the "Bentley" of the Williams line, the Symphony Elite.I would rather spend a little extra and have a piano that will last my son for several years as he expands his technical knowlege.The piano arrived two days ago.My husband said it was delivered curbside by UPS Roadway.This is because the box is quite heavy.He had to open the box in our sunporch and carry pieces upstairs to our second floor individually. I wasn't home when he assembled the piano, but he had no complaints of it being difficult.When he called me at work after assembling it, he referred to it as being a "monstrosity".It measures approximately 55 inches across the top. It has a glossy black finish like a grand piano.The music rest is gorgeous.It has a stainless steel "W" logo on it.There are two shiny brass little wands that can be pulled up to support your songbook or music sheets.This is a great improvement over the steel wire that didn't hold up much of anything on his old Casio Magic Light.Also, there is the delightful keyboard cover that slides out over the keys, again, just like a real piano.Finally, there are the three foot pedals identical to a real piano.Just as a piece of furniture, it is aesthetically beautiful.I don't pretend to know all of the technical details (you can find them listed under the piano picture above), but it has over a hundred voices, effects, demos, computer connectivity via USB, and the ability to record yourself. Hidden discreetly under the piano to your left are jacks for using headphones,USB/MIDI and to plug in a microphone. It also has a metronome.My son sounds great when he uses the church organ voice.The beauty of this piano is not only in its appearance, but in the freedom to enjoy the various effects of a keyboard.When my son plays this piano, it looks like I should put a candelabra on top of it!He is very happy, because he feels like he is playing a real piano.

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Product Description:
The Williams Symphony Digital Piano combines realistic voices with excellent playability. Players can choose the clear tone of 138 different instruments or use among 100 different rhythm styles for fully orchestrated compositions. The Symphony Piano provides an endless source of musical enjoyment in a luxurious black gloss finish cabinet with sliding key-cover.

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Etudes, Children's Corner, Images Book II, and Other Works for Piano [Paperback] Review

Etudes, Children's Corner, Images Book II, and Other Works for Piano [Paperback]For years, due to copywrite issues, "The Children's Corner" suite was only available in a French edition. Now it's here, in an affordale Dover edition, along with some rarer piano solos.
"Children's Corner" ranges from playable ("Dr. Gradus ad Parnassum" and "The Little Shepherd" and "Doll's Lullaby" to the evilly tricky "Snow is Dancing" made famous by Tomita in an electronic version. The suite was written for Debussy's daughter and is utterly charming and really fun to play. The etude's from Book II are incomplete here, but have some of the nices works, along with a beautiful berceuse.
If you play piano and love the Impressionist composers, this is a must-have.

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Product Description:
Many of the most admired of Debussy's piano works, reprinted from authoritative French editions, among them the Etudes (1915), a late work that richly displays the full range and depth of Debussy's genius for the piano, and the magical Children's Corner (1906-8). Also included: Nocturne (1892), Piece pour piano (1903-4), Images, Book II (1907), Hommage a Haydn (1910), The Little Nigar (1909), La plus que lente (1910), Berceuse heroique (1914), Six epigraphes antiques (1914) and Elegie (1915).


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Beethoven, Piano Sonatas: Op. 14, Nos. 1,2 / Op. 22 / Op. 26 / Op. 27, Nos. 1, 2 / Op. 28 (An Alfred Masterwork Library) [Paperback] Review

Beethoven, Piano Sonatas: Op. 14, Nos. 1,2 / Op. 22 / Op. 26 / Op. 27, Nos. 1, 2 / Op. 28 [Paperback]Amazon has confused the 3 available volumes with each other (as of Oct. 16, 2009)!!Just to clear things up, ALL of the volumes are paperback, and the "paperback" option on the volume 1 product page is actually a link to the volume 3 product page.So, just be careful and read the title when you click around to avoid buying the wrong volume.

That being said, Dr. Gordon's Beethoven edition is truly the only study edition you will ever need. Dr. Gordon has done all the research for us and compiled everything into a neat set of complete sonatas.He includes at the beginning of each volume short articles on performance practices such as articulation and ornamentation, tempo/pulse, as well as interesting bits about Beethoven's Broadwood piano, etc.

More importantly, Dr. Gordon inserts valuable researched information before EACH sonata, complete with a facsimile of the original first edition cover.He covers history, structure, unusual key relationships, and basically everything a student is supposed to research before bringing the sonata to his/her teacher for the first time.

One of the most helpful parts of this edition is that Dr. Gordon compares the differences between OTHER editions such as the Schnabel, Arrau, Tovey, Bulow, Simrock, etc., rendering this edition ridiculously economical because owning Dr. Gordon's edition is like buying ALL of the available editions in one low Alfred Publishing price...

The only downside to all the footnotes is that there are many more page turns, and sometimes a page will only have 3 lines of music because the rest of the page is filled with footnotes and alternate ornamentation!The solution?Just invest in a good working edition (Wallner's Henle Urtex or Hauschild's Vienna Urtex editions) and use Dr. Gordon's edition as your guide.

I highly recommend buying the three available volumes and the fourth when it becomes available.I know I will use these editions for years to come (nobody ever outgrows Beethoven sonatas), and I know this edition will help me sound like I know what I'm talking about when I hold highly intellectual conversations with the smart people!

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Product Description:
Beethoven wrote 32 sonatas for piano.Volume 1, edited by Stewart Gordon, includes the first 8 sonatas (Op. 2, Nos. 1-3; Op. 7; Op. 10, Nos. 1-3; and Op. 13 ["Pathetique"), written between 1795 and 1799.Since these autographs no longer exist, this edition is based on the first editions, published by various Viennese engravers.Dr. Gordon discusses a variety of topics including Beethoven's life; the pianos of his time and their limitations; Beethoven's use of articulation, ornamentation, tempo; and the age-old challenge of attempting to determine the definitive interpretation of Beethoven's music.Valuable performance recommendations, helpful fingering suggestions and ornament realizations are offered in this comprehensive critical body of Beethoven's sonatas.Where performance options are open to interpretation, other editors' conclusions are noted, enabling students and teachers to make informed performance decisions.--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

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The Producers (Easy Piano Songbook) [Paperback] Review

The Producers [Paperback]I am a big fan of Mel Brooks and more recently a fan of his newest hit musical formerlly starring Nathan Lane and Matthew Broderick.Since then I have been reading The Producers forum at the official website, and almost every week someone asks "Where can I get a copy of the sheet music" or some variation there of.Well here it is!This collection of 19 catchy tunes and hillarious lyrics is great for singing along with a piano accompament.The songs include ...'Til Him, Along Came Bialy Betrayed, Der Guten Tag Hop-Clop, Goodbye!, Haben Sie Gehort Das Deutsche Band? (Have You Ever Heard The German Band?), Heil Myself, I Wanna Be A Producer, In Old Bavaria, Keep It Gay, Opening Night, Prisoners Of Love (Leo & Max), Springtime For Hitler, That Face, The King Of Broadway, We Can Do It, When You Got It, Flaunt It, Where Did We Go Right?, and You Never Say Good Luck On Opening Night!This is almost everysong on the CD (with the exception of the Oventure and the reprise of Opening Night).With this book you'll have an opportunity to sing, hum, clap and hail Mel the way you may have done when you saw this great Broadway hit!

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Product Description:
This songbook contains easy piano arrangements of a dozen songs from Mel Brooks' Broadway blockbuster, the winner of a record 12 Tony Awards! Includes: Along Came Bialy * Der Guten Tag Hop-Clop * Goodbye! * Haben Sie Gehort Das Deutsche Band? * I Wanna Be a Producer * In Old Bavaria * Keep It Gay * Prisoners of Love * Springtime for Hitler * That Face * 'Til Him * When You Got It, Flaunt It.

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Yamaha DVDMOTIFXS Motif XS Series DVD Review

Yamaha DVDMOTIFXS Motif XS Series DVDI would recommend this DVD if you just bought the MOTIF XS without owning or playing the older model (ES).

It is arguable that everything in this DVD is in the manual.Technically, that it is true.However, this DVD approaches the concept from another prospective and sometimes it helps to look at the concept from different angles. I think both DVD and the manual compliment one another.

After you watch this DVD, you should visit motifator.comThere you will find more documents for advance usages as well as the forum.Yamaha personnel also frequent in the forum and are extremely helpful.

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Product Description:
The official Motif XS DVD runs at approximately 3 1/2 hours and takes you on a complete tour of the features, functionality, and just plain fun at your disposal with this 2007-released Motif XS workstation. The Motif XS is surprisingly different from its predecessors and this DVD reflects its considerably enhanced performance-orientated capability.When looking at the main Voice, Performance, Pattern & Song areas, in addition to the key button pushes and navigation the DVD demonstrates how each mode can be used ' and customized ' live. Using controllers, playing the multiple arpeggios, making use of the offsets, Play FX, and more are all covered in detail.Effects are Big News on the Motif XS and the DVD spends more than 35 minutes looking at what you've got and how to apply them in all the major modes.It's easy to overlook the (optional) sampling capability on an instrument as inherently 'big' as this but with sample memory safely installed, the delights of sample-based voice libraries, replacing drum voices in customized drum kits, recording guitar and more await. The DVD spends a good 40 minutes on these exciting possibilities.Motif XS's sequencer is powerful and, for many people, will cover all their recording needs. But this is not an either/or situation with computer-based DAWs. The DVD's final scene looks at how to hook up the bundled Cubase AI, along with how to transfer control (and indeed files) back and forth between the two worlds of 'computer' and 'musical instrument.'Written and presented by Yamaha Corporation of America's Athan Billias - one of the Motif series' prime shakers and movers since Day One - you could not be in better hands when it comes to discovering the world of the Motif XS.

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Warren Bernhardt Teaches Jazz Piano: Volume 1 - A Hands-On Course in Improvisation and Technique [Paperback] Review

Warren Bernhardt Teaches Jazz Piano: Volume 1 - A Hands-On Course in Improvisation and Technique [Paperback]Make no mistake. This book isn't for the casual piano player. I think I'm a pretty good player but this book assumes you know a lot about sophisticated cording and comping already. The recordings are good and Warren is an outstanding player. The playbook is a thin 32 pages or so and it's hard to do much more than play what's written there.
It didn't work well for me. Way too advanced.

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Product Description:
With only a basic knowledge of the piano, you can enter the world of jazz improvisation!With WarrenÕs expert guidance, youÕll quickly develop an understanding of the building blocks of jazz piano: scales, melodic development, rhythm comping, chord building, bass lines and much more!

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Alfred's Basic Piano Course, Hymn Book 3 (Alfred's Basic Piano Library) [Paperback] Review

Alfred's Basic Piano Course, Hymn Book 3 [Paperback]I do find it interesting that it never gives an age (youth, adult, young adult). This is definitely for a younger student in an "advanced" beginner stage, not a later beginner as some my think it being for an young adult or adult beginner. I also find it interesting that Level 2-3 is much lower skill level in this younger version that other books I have viewed.

With that in mind, it was fine for it's purpose, I just think that Alfred's needs to make it clearer.

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Product Description:
The 22 well-known hymns presented in this book will provide enjoyable material that will reinforce each new principle and concept introduced in the Level 3 Lesson Book of ALFRED'S BASIC PIANO LIBRARY. For those who are particularly motivated by sacred music, this book should provide many hours of musical enjoyment that will result in improvement in the performance of music of all types.

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Masterwork Classics, Level 5 (Alfred Masterwork Editions) [Paperback] Review

Masterwork Classics, Level 5 [Paperback]The Mastering the Piano series is a boon for teachers and students alike.They are good buys - the CD is certainly helpful for students who no longer are that familiar with repertoire at this level.As with the others, the selection is excellant and pretty much at the same level except for the challenging Grieg, Wedding Day at Troldhaugen.The advantage of having all the pieces at the same level of excellance and ability is that one book can cover a years study, minimizing the expense.This volume contains a Joplin rag as its contempory piece - an appealing choice.

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Product Description:
A progressive repertoire series designed to motivate students while allowing them to progress evenly and smoothly from the earliest classics toward intermediate literature.These pieces are from the standard classical literature, chosen to appeal both to teacher and student. Each volume comes with a corresponding CD.

Pianist Valery Lloyd-Watts studied at the Conservatory of Music in Toronto and the Royal College of Music in London. She earned a Master of Music degree from the University of Wisconsin, where she studied with Paul Badura-Skoda.

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150 Songs With Just 3 Chords [Paperback] Review

150 Songs With Just 3 Chords [Paperback]Got this book for my 11-year-old to help him learn some songs and make guitar playing fun. It helped.

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Product Description:
Songs include: Alouette * Amazing Grace * America * Billy Boy * BlackIs the Color * Careless Love * Country Gardens * Hava Nagilah *Home on the Range * In the Sweet Bye and Bye * Minuet * Oh, Rock of Ages * Skip to My Lou * Two Guitars and more.

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AB 30 Keys Baby Grand Piano - White Color Review

AB 30 Keys Baby Grand Piano - White ColorThe baby grand paino was smaller than expected plus it was not in the most mint condition either.There was a corner damaged at the front and the paino key guide sticker was not stuck on the paino securely. The paino itself is not as heavy as I thought it should be to protect toddlers from leaning on it and tipping it over.Plus there has been a stong paint smell that has continued to linger a month later. Overall though it is a cute first piano.

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Product Description:
This 30 keys Piano is ideal for toddlers and children! It features 30 playable keys and has a "baby grand" Piano style. It is made of hardwood and hardboard materials. The Piano measures: 19 1/4"H x 19 7/8"W x 21 1/2" and the matching bench measures 9 1/4"H x 9 5/8"W x 6 1/2".
This Piano is perfect for small children to play on and makes a wonderful gift for the special child. It is also a great value for the money!

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Piano Lessons in the Grand Style: From the Golden Age of The Etude Music Magazine (1913-1940) [Paperback] Review

Piano Lessons in the Grand Style: From the Golden Age of The Etude Music Magazine [Paperback]This is a historical treasure trove of piano knowledge.The Etude magazine lasted so many years, that I wish more articles were published.Please do!

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Product Description:
Published from 1883 to 1957, The Etude Music Magazine read like a diary of the emerging American musical community. During this period, it featured a series of "Master-Lessons" by noted piano virtuosi. Originally intended to provide world-class teaching to a public that otherwise could not afford such lessons, the series became an invaluable record of professional performance practice, offering a rare and unique glimpse of piano teaching in the first decades of the century. Among the chapters in this collection are master-lessons on Paderewski's Minuet in G, Chopin's Military Polonaise, Grieg's Norwegian Bridal Procession, Mendelssohn's Scherzo, and Beethoven's Pathétique Sonata. Authors include such piano masters as Wilhelm Bachaus, Percy Grainger, Edwin Hughes, and Mark Hambourg. This unique collection, carefully compiled in a format that preserves its original layout and style, is indispensable to piano teachers and students, and of the greatest interest to the growing number of piano literature and performance practice classes taught at the university level. An active conductor, composer, and author, Dr. Jeffrey Johnson is currently Chair of the Music Program at The University of Bridgeport, Connecticut. Dover original compilation from The Etude Music Magazine.


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Learn from the Legends: Blues Keyboard [Paperback] Review

Learn from the Legends: Blues Keyboard [Paperback]This book is the companion to LFTL: Rock Keyboards. Again, there are some nice bios and pictures of the featured keyboardists, with their personal tips quoted in the side bars. The book also has a decent introductory chapter on basic music theory, and blues scales and their fingerings are given on the last page. The guts of the book are the sixty or so transcribed and recorded licks. Each lick is referenced to a page in the book via an introductory voice over. The fingering is provided on selected licks. Most the licks are generally four bars long and played only once on the CD. However, this time the book includes one or two full 12 bar songs in the style on each artist.Learning an entire song is more enjoyable than just amassing a repertoire of licks. This book is for intermediate to advanced players and is a cut above LFTL: Rock Keyboards.

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Product Description:
Fulfill your dreams and play like a legend! You can stop simply dreaming about playing like a star and learn to play like one of the greats. Now you can learn from legendary performers who describe, in their own words, the early years of their paths to stardom. Licks in the style of each performer are included to help you make your dream a reality. These books are great tools for any keyboard player whether performing on a piano, synthesizer or organ.A play-along CD is available with all the licks recorded by a live band.

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Keyboard Scale Manual (Music Sales America) [Paperback] Review

Keyboard Scale Manual [Paperback]A very concise and powerful collection of scales and their fingerings. Very good to have for developing and refreshing scale technique.

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Product Description:
A complete guide to scales. Specially designed keyboard diagrams combined with standard notation make any scale easy to learn. A must for all keyboard players.

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Inventions and Sinfonias: Two- and Three-Part Inventions (Alfred Masterwork Edition) [Plastic Comb] Review

Inventions and Sinfonias: Two- and Three-Part Inventions [Plastic Comb]While a lot of people say that the Alfred edition of sheet music is the optimal tool for learning the classics, this edition disappointed me. Now, the things that I had problems with are things that others might actually like.

First, I find the alternate fingerings distracting. As a player, I look at the treble and bass cleft and then the fingerings, so that's three things I'm looking at. When I look to the fingering and see an extra set of fingerings in parenthesis above the first set, it confuses my hands too much. I can see how others would appreciate that there are alternate fingerings, so that they would be able to see what feels most comfortable, though, it's just too distracting for me.

Also, I thought that the additions of exactly how to trill and such were a little too much and I found them to be, again, distracting. However, I could definitely see how someone who needs that explanation benefiting from having it spelled out for them.

Over all, I think this is an excellent book and it certainly delivers a very comprehensive way to teach yourself how to play Bach's Inventions (I haven't even glanced over the Sinfonias as I was only interested in the Inventions). I just would prefer my music to look as clean and simple as possible. There's already enough going on in my head as it is when I sit down to play a piece of music. All the notes and such just serve to clutter it, in my experience.

I am very aware that I am NOT the majority of people on this belief, though. Many of my friends have this exact book and they love it and the things I have a problem with are the things that they love about it. So, find what works for you. If a lot of extra stuff on the page won't distract you and will actually help you, then by all means, this is definitely a great buy.

It's also a very good price for what you get.

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Product Description:
Students, teachers and professional pianists will find this volume invaluable. This historically accurate edition contains a wealth of background information on ornamentation, dotted rhythms in the Baroque style, and the recommended tempos and guidelines for performing the works on the piano. Bach's writing is carefully separated from the editorial suggestions in light gray print. A wealth of footnotes compare the various sources consulted. 116 pages.

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Music for Little Mozarts: Flash Cards [Paperback] Review

Music for Little Mozarts: Flash Cards [Paperback]I think that the flashcards were a must because they really helped reinforce what my child was learning during her lessons.They're big, easy-to-read, and very user-friendly if you have no music background.

The cards review notes, rhythms, music dynamics, and musical symbols.

They're a good, worthwhile purchase.

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Product Description:
Flash Cards reinforce concepts as they are presented in the Music Lesson Book 4. Each card contains a musical symbol or rhythm pattern for the student to identify. Included on the cards are musical terms, keys on the keyboard, notes and rests, rhythm patterns, notes on the staff, steps and skips, intervals on the keyboard, and melodic and harmonic intervals on the staff. The back of the cards contain questions to ask the student about the information on the front of the card. Answers are provided, making the cards easy to use for parents with limited musical backgrounds.

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Keyboard Works for Solo Instrument (Music Series) [Paperback] Review

Keyboard Works for Solo Instrument [Paperback]I really enjoyed this book. I had a lot of fun playing Handel on my guitar. The transcriptions are excellemt and are great if you wish to play a litlle handel melody on your instrument. My one complaint is that no soloinstrument could ever match how the original composition must have sounded,so don't expect miracles

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Product Description:
This exciting volume features 35 neglected works from Handel's vast oeuvre, originally jotted down as improvisations. Includes 8 Great Suites, and others. New sequence.

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Masterwork Classics, Level 1-2 (Alfred Masterwork Editions) [Paperback] Review

Masterwork Classics, Level 1-2 [Paperback]This Book/CD combination is hard to beat for someone who wants to start playing classical music from the get-go, rather than a lot of children's songs or folk songs.It is also a good value.It includes scores in easy to read format for 29 simple compositions, from baroque to 20th century.These are not watered-down versions of well-known pieces or popular melodies, but rather original classical compositions written specifically for the novice.Most are ½ page or 1 page, and no page turning is required.This is a great supplement to any method book, and provides at least several weeks worth of fine early material. I have been using the PIANO HANDBOOK (Carl Humphries) but realized I needed additional early material since that book moves so quickly.

The CD, which includes each of these pieces, is well played and nicely recorded.The CD is invaluable--not only to hear how the songs are intended to sound, but also to better choose which ones to work on (especially if, like me, you're self-taught).I've selected 12 of the pieces to work on over the next few weeks, starting with two, and adding a new one each week. These songs are appealing enough that I'll probably be playing several of them for a long time.I've also purchased the Level 3 Masterwork Classics and can hardly wait to get started with that.........but first things first.

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Product Description:
A progressive repertoire series designed to motivate students while allowing them to progress evenly and smoothly from the earliest classics toward intermediate literature.These pieces are from the standard classical literature, chosen to appeal both to teacher and student. Each volume comes with a corresponding CD.

PIanist Kim O'Reilly Newman holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Illinois. She has performed throughout North America and Europe with the Hambro Quartet of Pianos and was an editor and recording pianist for Alfred Publishing. Kim is a brain tumor survivor and now specializes in performing music for the left hand.

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Masterwork Classics, Level 7 (Alfred Masterwork Edition) [Paperback] Review

Masterwork Classics, Level 7 [Paperback]This book is special in that all the repertoire is at the same level andthe choice of pieces is superior.The selection is varied and includes lyrical and technical repertoire and all will appeal to an advanced highschooler looking to break out into challenging repertoire as well as an advanced adult. Has the added value of a very competant CD.This series is definitely a good buy; look for the others.

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Product Description:
A progressive repertoire series designed to motivate students while allowing them to progress evenly and smoothly from the earliest classics toward intermediate literature.These pieces are from the standard classical literature, chosen to appeal both to teacher and student. Each volume comes with a corresponding CD.

Scott Price is the chair of the Piano Department at the University of South Carolina and holds a doctorate in piano performance from the University of Oklahoma. He has given master classes and recitals throughout the United States and Southeast Asia. His recordings are featured in Alfred's Premier Piano Course.

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The Blue Piano and Other Stories (Amadeus) [Hardcover] Review

The Blue Piano and Other Stories [Hardcover]Carol Montparker's long experience as a pianist, writer and teacher shine through these poignant, often humorous stories of a life in music. Whether dodging the unwanted attentions of a classical superstar or consulting fellow musicians on the ethics of changing Mozart's notes, she reveals with touching humanity the hurdles that an artist -- particularly a female artist -- must leap in order to survive. Her writing is warm and generous. As the editor of a piano magazine, I have been delighted to publish her musings from time to time. I recommend them to anyone who wants to have a friendly guide "backstage" and behind the scenes in the world of classical music.

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Belwin Piano Method / Book 3 [Paperback] Review

Belwin Piano Method / Book 3 [Paperback]I have use the Belwin Piano Method for 8 years of teaching from ages 4 - 35. It is concise and complete so you can learn as quickly or slowly as you like. You won't find a better teaching guide on the market.

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Product Description:
In this, the third book of the Belwin Piano Method, you will continue a program of learning which is designed to enable you to read music as easily as you read story. Many new facts in logical order are presented here and, as in Books 1 and 2, they are contained in a summary of information on the inside back cover. Suggestions for simple transposition will be found in footnotes on various pages. No boxes for finger numbers have been included in this book for it is hoped that the habit of finger planning has been so well established in Books 1 and 2 that you will continue to plan efficiently where finger numbers are not indicated. The five books of this method are designed for anyone from school age through adulthood. In all of the books, from the early grade material of Book 1 through the introduction to contemporary in Book 5, we think that you will enjoy and profit by the MUSICAL MUSIC which is offered to you.

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It's Easy To Play Mozart [Paperback] Review

It's Easy To Play Mozart [Paperback]Why? because ANYONE can play!!! With big notes and simplified arrangements It's REALLY easy to play Mozart!
I love the book and will keep it to my baby girl.

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Product Description:
Easy-to-read, simplified arrangements of some of the best-loved music of this great composer. Including Theme From A Musical Joke, Rondo Alla Turka, and excerpts from Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.

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The Library of Children's Song Classics [Paperback] Review

The Library of Children's Song Classics [Paperback]This collection is a mainstay of my collection of teaching materials.There are many classic tunes as well as some lesser known gems.The collection is organized into songs by category. Some of the tunes are different, but it is a great resource for lyrics alone.My children love this book as well!!!

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Product Description:
An illustrated volume of storybook, and holiday songs, lullabies, marches, and rounds. Easy-to-read lyrics, piano arrangements, and guitar chords. Includes Simple Simon, This Old Man, and Take Me Out To The Ballgame.

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The Schubert Song Transcriptions for Solo Piano / Series III: The Complete Schwanengesang (Schubert's Complete Song Texts) [Paperback] Review

The Schubert Song Transcriptions for Solo Piano / Series III: The Complete Schwanengesang [Paperback]The print quality is poor - though the music is beautiful.OK for listening to CD with - not for playing the piano.You'll strain your eyes.

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Product Description:
Brilliant transcriptions by the foremost pianist-composer of his day of all 14 songs in the series, including such masterpieces as "Das Fischermädchen," "Am Meer," "Abschied," "Ständchen," "Fruhlings-Sehnsucht," "Der Doppelgänger," and other famed lieder. All meticulously reproduced from rare early editions overseen by Liszt himself. A modestly priced collection of hard-to-find gems for pianists and music lovers.


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Favorite Piano Works (Schirmer's Library of Musical Classics) [Paperback] Review

Favorite Piano Works [Paperback]Glad I chose this edition. For my (totally amateur) purposes, Schirmer is just fine, and the price was certainly right.

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Product Description:
Many of Debussy's best-known pieces are assembled in this convenient, affordable collection. Includes: Children's Corner * Deux arabesques * Estampes * Hommage aHaydn * Images * L'isle joyeuse * Masques * Le petit negre * La plus que lente * Preludes, Books 1 and 2 (selections) * Reverie, Suite bergamasque (including "Clair de lune") * Suite: Pour le piano.

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J.S. Bach: Selections from Anna Magdalena's Notebook (Book & CD) (Alfred Masterwork Edition) [Paperback] Review

J.S. Bach: Selections from Anna Magdalena's Notebook [Paperback]This is an excellent edition of Bach's simple masterpieces. The decorations are clearly spelled out on separate staffs to avoid clutter. These are great pieces for the intermediate piano student.

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Product Description:
This timeless collection contains selections attributed to J.S. Bach, his son C.P.E. Bach, and others. Generations of students have studied the volume's "Menuet in G Major," "Musette in D Major" and the "Prelude in C Major" from the first volume of the Well-Tempered Clavier. Dr. Palmer provides the texts to the instrumental settings of chorales and arias found in this work, as well as a brief biography of the Bach family.

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Library of Easy Piano Classics 2 (Library of Series) [Plastic Comb] Review

Library of Easy Piano Classics 2 [Plastic Comb]I am trying to teach myself to play piano, and this book is great. After spending time playing songs from kindergarden, it's really nice to sit down and play something that gives you a lot of pleasure and really makes you want to play more.
This book has really motivated me to practice more and concentrate harder in the time I do spend at the piano. Also, it's a great bargain - it's a huge book and a LOT of songs for the price. Usually you spend 12-15 dollars on a thin book with just a few songs.

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Product Description:
Compendium of the world's most beloved music, just mention a title that is universally well known and you are likely to find it in this comprehensive library series. Enjoy over 100 masterpieces by the world's great composers, best loved preludes of JS Bach, waltzes of Chopin and Strauss, minuets by Mozart and Handel and themes from the symphonies and piano concertos of Beethoven, Schubert and Tchaikovsky. This Expansive volume also includes great moments from the ballet; timeless arias by Wagner, Verdi and Puccini and other popular classics. It answers the vital needs of the student, teacher, and today's audience.

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TV & Movie Piano Solos for Kids [Paperback] Review

TV & Movie Piano Solos for Kids [Paperback]Some pages unseparated along top binding preventing book from opening fully. Searched through a number of outdated songs in order to find a song that my elementary school-aged kids would even recognize only to find music so simplified it was rendered unrecognizable. Don't waste your money.

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Product Description:
Thirty-five wonderful songs, including: The Ballad of Gilligan's Isle * The Entertainer * Ghostbusters * I'll Be There for You (Theme from "Friends") * Jeopardy Theme * Linus and Lucy * The Lion Sleeps Tonight * Matchmaker * Once Upon a December * Over the Rainbow * The Pink Panther * This Is It! and more.

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Learn from the Legends: Rock Keyboard (Book & CD) [Paperback] Review

Learn from the Legends: Rock Keyboard [Paperback]Okay, there are some nice bios and pictures of the featured keyboardists, with their personal tips quoted in the side bars. But that is fan magazine stuff. The guts of the book are the seventy or so transcribed and recorded licks. Unfortunately there is no information as to the song source. I could recognize some by ear, but the licks are presented in the "style" of the artist, so there is no guarantee of accuracy. Also the licks are generally four bars long and played only once on the CD. On the plus side each lick is referenced to a page in the book via an introductory voice over. I think the best use for this book is ear training: Hear the lick, play the lick, write down the notes and then check your results against the book transcription.

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Product Description:
Rock is heard by more people worldwide than ever before.Now you can learn about six legendary rockers who describe their early years on their way to stardom. You'll play licks in their style while learning or reviewing basic music theory, chords and a wealth of techniques that will help you sound great.A play-along CD is available recorded by a live band.

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