Best Beginner Piano Books for Children

Learning to play the piano is an exciting and rewarding experience for children of all ages. However, finding the right beginner piano book for an elementary-aged child can be challenging. There are countless options available, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we will discuss some of the best beginner piano books for elementary-aged children and what makes them effective.

1. "Alfred's Basic Piano Library" by Willard Palmer, Morton Manus, and Amanda Vick Lethco

"Alfred's Basic Piano Library" is a comprehensive series of piano books that is ideal for elementary-aged children who are just beginning to learn the piano. The series is divided into several levels, each of which is designed to help children learn progressively more advanced piano skills.

One of the key strengths of "Alfred's Basic Piano Library" is that it provides a strong foundation in music theory and technique. Children who work through this series will learn about note reading, rhythm, dynamics, and more. The books also include plenty of fun songs and exercises to keep children engaged and motivated.

1. "Piano Adventures" by Nancy and Randall Faber

"Piano Adventures" is another popular piano book series for children. Like "Alfred's Basic Piano Library," it is divided into several levels, each of which is designed to teach children progressively more advanced piano skills.

"Piano Adventures" is known for its engaging and colorful approach to music education. The books are filled with fun illustrations and activities that help children learn about music theory and technique in a way that is both fun and effective. The series also includes a wide variety of songs and exercises, which helps keep children engaged and motivated.

1. "Bastien Piano Basics" by James Bastien

"Bastien Piano Basics" is a popular series of piano books that is known for its clear and concise approach to music education. The series is divided into several levels, each of which is designed to help children learn progressively more advanced piano skills.

One of the key strengths of "Bastien Piano Basics" is that it emphasizes good technique from the very beginning. Children who work through this series will learn about proper hand position, posture, and finger placement, which are all essential for playing the piano well. The series also includes a variety of fun songs and exercises that help children develop their musical skills.

1. "John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano" by John Thompson

"John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano" is a classic piano book series that has been used by generations of piano students. The series is designed to help children learn the fundamentals of piano playing, including note reading, rhythm, and technique.

One of the strengths of "John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano" is that it includes a wide variety of musical styles. Children who work through this series will learn to play classical pieces, as well as popular songs and folk tunes. The series also includes plenty of fun exercises and activities to keep children engaged and motivated.

In conclusion, there are many excellent beginner piano books available for elementary-aged children. "Alfred's Basic Piano Library," "Piano Adventures," "Bastien Piano Basics," and "John Thompson's Modern Course for the Piano" are all great options that provide a strong foundation in music theory and technique, while also being engaging and fun for children to use. When choosing a beginner piano book for a child, it is important to consider their interests, learning style, and skill level, and to choose a book that will challenge and motivate them as they begin their piano-playing journey.