Let's Play The Piano

Bud and Pearl Conway are the professional ivory ticklers in this introduction to piano playing which places a lot of emphasis on learning to read music. Separated into half-hour lessons, the first section covers the basics of the keyboard: i.e. the names of the keys and the concepts that will be presented. In the second lesson, viewers will begin learning to read music. The first assignment is a tasty one: eat 11 popsicles. Actually, you only need to have the sticks, which are used as markers on the keyboard. In later sections, viewers are taught the scales, sharps and flats, division and subdivision of notes and rests, and a whole host of other music reading activities. Although the only two songs performed are "As the Saints Go Marching In" and "Born Free," the serious student will come away with the ability to tackle any piece of written music regardless of genre. The only drawback is that the instructors keep referring to a manual which is not included--at least, not all of it. There is a "Basic Theory Charts" flyer included with the tape, but this doesn't cover all of the references (especially those made during the last hour.) Still, there is enough information and work here to get beginning students up and off the ground with a solid foundation in reading music. Recommended. (Available from most distributors.)