John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano: The First Grade Book: Something New Every Lesson [With CD] : Book Review

"John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano" by John Thompson is a highly respected instructional book that is widely regarded as a valuable resource for individuals who want to learn how to play the piano. It offers a comprehensive approach and progressive lessons that cater to both beginners and intermediate players. The book covers a wide range of musical styles and techniques, enabling students to develop a well-rounded understanding of piano playing.

Thompson's Modern Course begins with the fundamentals, teaching readers how to read sheet music and grasp musical notation. From there, it gradually introduces new concepts and techniques, such as hand positions, scales, chords, and dynamics. Each lesson builds upon the previous one, creating a logical and structured learning experience.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on not only technical skills but also musicality and expression. The author provides a diverse array of exercises, practice pieces, and musical examples to ensure that students not only learn how to mechanically play the piano but also develop their interpretative abilities and musical sensitivity.

One of the strengths of the book is its coverage of various musical styles, including classical, folk, and popular music. This allows students to explore different genres and expand their repertoire. Additionally, the inclusion of well-known classical compositions, such as Beethoven's "Fur Elise" and Bach's "Minuet in G," adds a sense of familiarity and enjoyment to the learning process.

In summary, "John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano" is highly recommended for individuals who want to learn or improve their piano playing skills. Its comprehensive approach, progressive lessons, and focus on musicality make it an invaluable resource for aspiring pianists of all levels. Whether you are a beginner or an intermediate player, this book will provide you with the essential tools and knowledge while nurturing your passion for music.

What are readers saying?

John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano has been well-received by readers, who have praised its comprehensive and well-structured approach to learning the instrument. The book gradually progresses in difficulty, allowing beginners to establish a solid foundation while also challenging more advanced players to improve their skills. Readers particularly appreciate the clear explanations and helpful exercises that are included, finding them to be valuable tools for learning.

One aspect of the book that receives praise is the variety of musical genres covered. From classical to popular music, John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano offers a diverse selection of pieces that keep learners engaged and motivated. Reviewers mention that this diversity allows them to explore different playing styles and genres, ultimately helping them become more well-rounded musicians.

The book places a strong emphasis on technique and sight-reading, which has also garnered positive feedback. Readers find the exercises and practice tips effective in developing finger dexterity and musical interpretation. Many note that these sections are particularly useful, ultimately helping them improve their playing skills and confidence.

The inclusion of audio accompaniments is another aspect that readers appreciate. The accompanying CDs provide recordings of each piece, offering a helpful reference for rhythm, melody, and interpretation. Multiple reviewers consider this feature to be a valuable tool for practicing and checking their progress.

While the majority of reviews are positive, some readers mention that certain sections may feel challenging for absolute beginners. Additionally, there are occasional comments regarding the book's layout and font size, with readability being a concern for some readers. However, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the overall positive feedback on the content and effectiveness of John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano.

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