"The Complete Piano Player" by Kenneth Baker is an excellent guide for anyone interested in learning to play the piano. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this book offers a step-by-step approach that will help you master this beautiful instrument. The author covers a wide range of musical styles, techniques, and theory, providing readers with a well-rounded education in piano playing.
One of the standout features of this book is its user-friendly approach. Kenneth Baker starts from the very basics, explaining how to read sheet music, proper hand positions, and correct posture. He then gradually introduces new concepts and techniques, ensuring that readers can understand and apply them effectively. This makes it ideal for beginners who have never played the piano before.
Another great aspect of "The Complete Piano Player" is the variety of musical genres covered. From classical to pop, jazz, and blues, each chapter focuses on a different style, giving readers the opportunity to explore and learn various musical techniques. The inclusion of accompanying audio tracks enhances the learning experience, allowing readers to listen and play along with the examples provided.
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A highlight of the book is the extensive collection of songs included. Kenneth Baker offers a diverse selection of well-known and beloved tunes, which not only keeps learners motivated but also allows them to apply the concepts and techniques learned throughout the book. The song choices cater to different musical tastes and preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Overall, "The Complete Piano Player" is a valuable resource for those interested in learning to play the piano. With clear and concise instructions, a wide range of musical styles and songs, it serves as a comprehensive guide for both beginners and intermediate players. Whether your goal is to become a professional pianist or simply play for your own enjoyment, this book is an excellent starting point for your musical journey.
What are readers saying?
"The Complete Piano Player" by Kenneth Baker has garnered a range of opinions from readers. Some reviewers praised the book for its user-friendly format and comprehensive approach to learning the piano, while others expressed concerns about its lack of depth and difficulty level.
Numerous readers found the book's step-by-step instructions and clear explanations to be accessible and easy to follow, particularly for beginners. They appreciated the book's ability to establish a strong foundation in piano playing and help them progress quickly. The inclusion of a variety of classic songs and exercises was also well-received, providing readers with ample opportunities to practice different techniques.
However, some readers felt that the book fell short in terms of depth and failed to provide enough challenging material for more experienced players. They desired a broader selection of songs and more advanced exercises to further cultivate their skills. Reviewers were also critical of the book's simplistic approach, suggesting that it could have delved deeper into advanced concepts and techniques.
Another point of contention among readers was the book's emphasis on reading sheet music rather than teaching improvisation or playing by ear. While some found the focus on traditional notation to be essential, others desired more guidance in alternative playing methods.
Additionally, a number of readers expressed reservations about the quality of the book's arrangements. They believed that certain songs were inaccurately transcribed and lacked the nuances of the original compositions. Such discrepancies disappointed more discerning musicians who had expected greater attention to detail.
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