Piano/keyboards 1D

About this course

This course develops piano technique and musical understanding beyond the first year of beginner study. Learners work on rhythmic patterns, legato and finger staccato, dynamic contrasts, and reading music in major keys. The programme includes one-octave scales and hands-separate arpeggios in C, G and F major, plus harmonic and melodic A minor. Teaching combines tutor explanation and demonstration with group playing and individual tasks. Learners also explore keyboard harmony by identifying and using I, IV and V chords to harmonise simple melodies, alongside related aural and theoretical work.

What you'll learn

• Play and recognise I, IV and V chords in major keys
• Perform major scales and related arpeggios hands separately
• Read and perform rhythms using quavers, shorter note values and dotted notes
• Apply basic legato and finger staccato techniques to melodic lines
• Recognise and perform forte and piano dynamics
• Use written and aural understanding of keyboard harmony in pieces and technical studies

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for improvers who have been playing piano for around a year or have completed Piano/keyboards 1C. Learners take part in group playing and individual demonstrations, follow written and verbal instructions in English, and engage in class discussions. Regular practice between lessons is expected to support the course work.

• Previous study at approximately first-year level is expected
• The class includes both group playing and individual demonstration tasks
• Learners need to follow instructions in English and contribute to class discussions
• Regular practice of around 20 to 30 minutes, four to five times weekly, is recommended

Before you go

• Learners need access to a full-sized keyboard or piano for practice between classes
• One or two printed music books may be needed for the course
• A notebook and pencil may be useful
• Course materials and homework tasks are shared through Google Classroom