Piano For Dummies, 3rd Edition

Play the piano today with an easy-to-use instruction set!

Piano For Dummies, 3^rd Edition is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking fundamental piano instruction. Whether you’re brand new to the piano or have been at it awhile, Piano For Dummies will soon have you tickling the ivories like a pro! This book contains all the information you need to start playing today, including clear instruction and supplementary materials. Learn different musical styles, like classical, rock, blues, and country, and how to find the perfect teacher should you decide to expand your instruction.

With the widest tonal range of any instrument, the piano is versatile enough to produce melody and accompaniment at the same time. This standout feature is also what makes mastering the piano such a complex affair. Piano For Dummies, 3^rd Edition breaks it down into simple, easy-to-follow instruction, written in the characteristically accessible Dummies style. For the beginner, the book serves as a complete introductory course. For the more advanced player, it becomes a handy reference to keep around for periodic refreshers. Topics include:

• Finding the perfect keyboard, and caring for your piano
• The intricacies of reading music, including notes, rhythm, and change-ups
• Melody, harmony, and the building blocks of sound
• The role of individual technique, and finding your own groove

The book also includes advice on practicing efficiently and improving your performance, as well as tips on how to pursue more advanced experiences. A great piano player is always the life of the party, and in high demand. If you’re looking to become one with the “88,” Piano For Dummies, 3^rd Edition is the resource you want!

Table of Contents

Part I: Getting Started with Piano
Chapter 1: Preparing to Play a Piano
Chapter 2: Meeting the Keyboard Family
Chapter 3: Finding the Perfect Keyboard
Chapter 4: Taking Good Care of Your Keyboard
Chapter 5: Eighty-Eight Keys, Three Pedals, Ten Fingers, and Two Feet

Part II: Deciphering Squiggles on Paper to Create Sound
Chapter 6: Reading Lines and Spaces
Chapter 7: Joining the Rhythm Nation
Chapter 8: Changing the Beaten Path

Part III: One Hand at a Time
Chapter 9: Playing a Melody
Chapter 10: Scaling to New Heights
Chapter 11: Hey, Don’t Forget Lefty!

Part IV: Living in Perfect Harmony
Chapter 12: The Building Blocks of Harmony
Chapter 13: Understanding Keys
Chapter 14: Filling Out Your Sound with Chords

Part V: Technique Counts for Everything
Chapter 15: Dressing Up Your Music
Chapter 16: Great Grooves
Chapter 17: Perusing the Aisle of Style

Part VI: The Part of Tens
Chapter 18: Ten Ways to Improve Your Practice and Performance
Chapter 19: Ten Ways to Supplement This Book
Chapter 20: Ten Questions to Ask Prospective Teachers

Appendix: About the Website: Audio Tracks and Video Clips