Unlock Your Inner Mozart: The 6 Best Piano Books for Adults
Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best piano books for adults for your budget and situation, along with our Top 6 recommendations!
Playing the piano is not only a popular hobby, but it is also considered to be a therapeutic activity that can relieve stress and reduce anxiety. Learning to play the piano can be a lifelong pursuit, and more and more adults are taking up the hobby later in life. However, finding the right resources to aid in learning can be a challenge.
In this blog post, we will delve into the world of piano books for adults and explore the variety of options available. We'll take a closer look at the benefits of using piano books as a resource, and provide you with some specific recommendations to help you get started on your musical journey.
Overview of Books for Adults Learning to Play
The history of piano books for adults dates back to the early days of musical education. While there have always been instructional books for beginners, the notion of creating specific piano books for adults emerged in the 20th century.
As the demand for adult piano lessons grew, publishers such as Hal Leonard, Bastien Piano Basics, and Alfred's Basic Piano Library started to release a wide range of piano books for adults.
Adult piano books are designed to cater to the different learning needs and interests of adult students. Unlike children's piano books, adult piano books emphasize a more practical approach to piano playing, focusing not only on music theory but also on piano technique, sheet music, sight reading, and music notation. They contain instructional videos, audio accompaniment tracks, and teaching notes that provide a complete and comprehensive learning experience.
The piano books for adults come in different levels, from beginner to advanced. They provide adult beginners with a fun and engaging way to learn how to play the piano.
The instructional content includes explorations on how to read music notation, note reading, finger technique, correct playing habits, and how to play chords. The books enable the learners to progress at their own pace and level of difficulty.
The adult piano books are also packed with famous piano songs from various genres, such as classical, jazz, blues, and pop. These songs are chosen for their entertainment value and music learning.
Adult students can play a broad range of genres with ease and build their repertoire.
Piano books for adults have become increasingly popular over the years, with publishers such as Hal Leonard's "Adult Piano Adventures" and Alfred's "Basic Adult Piano" dominating the market. The Piano Adventures series offers a range of instructional books for adult beginners, while Alfred's Basic Piano Library provides adult students with a step-by-step approach to learning piano.
In conclusion, adult piano books have opened up a new world of opportunities for anyone who aspires to learn how to play the piano, regardless of age or experience. With the abundance of options available today, adult students can choose the method book or piano course that best fits their learning style and preferences to explore the world of music playing and techniques.
Buyer’s Guide to Piano Books for Adults
When shopping for piano books for adults, there are several features and benefits to consider. First and foremost, it is important to choose a book that is appropriate for your skill level and experience as an adult student. Look for beginner piano books if you are just starting out, or more advanced options if you are an experienced musician.
- A good piano book should cover a variety of playing techniques, including chord playing and finger strengthening drills, as well as sight reading and music theory. This will allow you to develop a well-rounded understanding of piano playing and enable you to play famous piano songs that you enjoy.
- It is also important to choose a piano book that includes written assignments, so that you can reinforce what you have learned in each lesson and continue to make progress. Some beginner piano books come with an accompanying CD or streaming video lessons, which can be a helpful resource for students interested in learning to play the piano.
- Another important consideration is the piano method book that accompanies the course. This will offer you a structured approach to learning the piano and help you stay focused on your goals. Look for a method book that is easy to use and includes a variety of music reading exercises and sheet music.
- Many adult piano books will also include entertaining songs or popular songs, which can make your piano playing experience more enjoyable. Some books may focus on specific musical genres, such as classical or jazz, so consider your personal musical tastes and preferences when choosing a piano book.
- Finally, it can be helpful to choose a piano book that offers online support, such as access to a music instructor or piano teacher. This can be a great resource for those who may need extra support or guidance while practicing.
In summary, look for a book that is appropriate for your skill level, covers a variety of playing techniques and music theory, includes written assignments, offers an accompanying method book, includes entertaining songs, and offers online support. By following these tips, you can find the best piano lesson books for your needs, and start experiencing the joy of piano playing.
Top 6 Piano Books for Adults
When it comes to finding the top piano books for adult learners, Amazon is an excellent resource for those seeking quality materials. After careful research and analysis, here are the top six piano books for adults on Amazon.com.
Adult Piano Adventures All-in-One Piano Course Book 1
First on our list is "Adult Piano Adventures All-in-One Piano Course Book 1: Book with Media Online" by Nancy and Randall Faber. This comprehensive method book offers a step-by-step approach to learning the piano and is specifically designed for adult beginners.
The book is easy to follow, engaging, and covers the basics of technique and music theory.
Best Value for the Money
Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course: Lesson Book, Level One
Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course: Lesson Book, Level One
Another top choice is "Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course: Lesson Book, Level One" by Willard A. Palmer, Morton Manus, and Amanda Vick Lethco. This method book focuses on familiar tunes, providing a fun and easy method for beginners to learn the piano.
Along with covering music theory, technique, and scales, the book also includes important lessons on posture and hand positions.
Best for Piano Buying Tips
The Piano Book: Buying & Owning a New or Used Piano
The Piano Book: Buying & Owning a New or Used Piano
Third on our list is "The Piano Book: Buying & Owning a New or Used Piano" by Larry Fine. This book is perfect for anyone looking to purchase a piano.
The book offers detailed information on everything from the different types of pianos available to the history of the instrument.
Best Budget Option
Accelerated Piano Adventures for the Older Beginner: Book 1
Accelerated Piano Adventures for the Older Beginner: Book 1
Fourth on our list is "Accelerated Piano Adventures for the Older Beginner: Lesson Book 1" by Nancy and Randall Faber. This book is tailor-made for adult beginners who may not have a lot of spare time but still want to learn the piano quickly.
With its fast-paced approach, it covers the basics of the piano in a short period.
Pianoworks Book 1
Fifth is "Pianoworks Book 1" by Alan Bullard. This method book covers a wide range of piano styles, including classical, jazz, rock and pop.
With its step-by-step approach and accompanying audio recordings, this book provides an inspiring learning experience for the adult beginner.
Best for a Fun Approach
Piano Scales, Chords & Arpeggios, Plus Basic Music Theory
Piano Scales, Chords & Arpeggios Lessons with Music Theory
Finally, "Piano Scales, Chords & Arpeggios Lessons with Elements of Basic Music Theory: Fun, Step-By-Step Guide for Beginner to Advanced Levels" by Damon Ferrante offers a comprehensive guide to learning scales, chords, and arpeggios, along with the basics of music theory.
This book is perfect for those looking to improve their keyboarding skills.
FAQs About Piano Books for Adults
1. What is the best type of piano book for an adult beginner?
Answer: A beginner piano book that is specifically designed for adults is recommended, as they often cater to the specific needs and interests of adult learners.
2. Can I learn to play the piano without a piano teacher?
Answer: It is possible to learn to play the piano on your own, but hiring a qualified piano teacher can greatly enhance your learning experience and help you avoid developing bad habits.
3. Is it necessary to know how to read music in order to play the piano?
Answer: Yes, knowing how to read music is an essential skill for playing the piano. Most piano books include music reading exercises to help learners develop this skill.
4. What are some popular piano songs that I can learn as an adult beginner?
Answer: Some popular and easy-to-learn songs for beginner pianists include "Jingle Bells," "Ode to Joy," and "Für Elise."
5. What is the difference between a piano method book and a beginning piano course?
Answer: A piano method book is a comprehensive book that includes all the necessary exercises, songs, and practice materials to learn how to play the piano, while a beginning piano course is typically a collection of songs and exercises that are meant to be used alongside a piano teacher.
6. Are video lessons as effective as learning from a piano instructor in person?
Answer: While learning from a piano instructor in person is generally more effective, video lessons can be a useful supplement for at-home practice and reinforcement.
7. Are there piano books available for experienced musicians looking to expand their repertoire?
Answer: Yes, there are many piano books available for experienced musicians looking to expand their skills and repertoire. Some books include advanced techniques and famous songs.
8. Are there any piano books specifically designed for adult learners who want to play fun songs?
Answer: Yes, there are piano books that cater to adult learners who want to learn to play fun and popular songs, such as movie soundtracks and pop hits.
9. Can finger strengthening drills be incorporated into a piano book for adults?
Answer: Yes, many beginner piano books include finger strengthening exercises and drills to help learners develop strong and nimble fingers.
10. Can I find a piano all-in-one book that includes everything I need to learn to play the piano?
Answer: Yes, there are many all-in-one piano books available for adult beginners that include exercises, songs, music reading exercises, and more for playing piano.
11. Can musical form and theory be included in a beginner piano book?
Answer: Yes, many beginner piano books include information and exercises on musical form and theory as a way of introducing learners to the foundational concepts of music.
12. Can a video course be a good option for an adult learner who wants to learn to play the piano?
Answer: Yes, a video course can be a good option for an adult learner who wants to learn to play the piano, as it provides visual and auditory cues that can be especially helpful for beginners learning on their own.
Summary of Adult Piano Books
In conclusion, piano books for adults have proven to be an effective tool in helping individuals learn to play the piano.
These books provide a structured approach to learning, with beginner and intermediate levels to accommodate a range of skill levels.
The inclusion of famous songs, such as "Amazing Grace" and "Jingle Bells," adds to the enjoyment of learning and playing music.
Furthermore, with the availability of streaming video lessons from a real piano professor, online piano teachers, and courses by experienced musicians, aspiring pianists from a young beginner to an older student have access to a wealth of resources to help them learn to play piano at their own pace.
The Adult All-In-One and Beginning Course series from Hal Leonard and Bastien Piano are still excellent products, but now they are just a few examples of the numerous brands that provide exceptional learning materials to turn anyone into a proficient piano player.
Once again, here are our top picks:
Best Overall: Adult Piano Adventures All-in-One Piano Course
Best Value for the Money: Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course
Best for Piano Buying Tips: The Piano Book: Buying & Owning
Best Budget Option: Accelerated Piano Adventures
Best Multimedia Option: Pianoworks Book 1 + CD
Best for a Fun Approach: Piano Scales, Chords & Arpeggios
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