Functional Piano

A step-by-step book for those looking to develop their functional piano skills, from basic harmonic accompaniments to stylistic renditions and improvisations.

First Published in 2011. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

This text demonstrates presentation styles for developing aural, keyboard and writing skills, as well as examining the theoretical and pedagogical conventions of musical education. This revised edition, coming 20 years after publication of the first, responds to the new trends in pedagogical study, highlights the transcendence of the canon by international music styles and popular music, and takes a fresh look at the current state of American academia. It also features an additional chapter by William E. Lake on the benefits of technology in the classroom.

A step-by-step book for those looking to develop their functional piano skills, from basic harmonic accompaniments to stylistic renditions and improvisations.

This interactive, practical book for teachers not only contains creative ideas for group classes, but also includes mental energizers, room for notes, and brainstorming concepts for planning personalized group classes. It is divided into three sections: Part I lays the foundation for the educational philosophy behind group learning, Part II focuses on ideas for piano group classes, and Part III discusses teaching piano students with special needs.