The Foundation Pianist
The Foundation Pianist is a set of two books for students beyond the beginner stage who want to develop a solid technical and musical foundation to their playing. The books explore technique through daily exercises, sight-reading, music from the piano repertoire, theory, quizzes and creative ideas to increase musical understanding. Each chapter contains ‘musical time travel’, giving key facts about different musical periods and a representative piece. Altogether, the books are an excellent way to develop technique and confidence, with plenty of enjoyable music to play!
‘An excellent, thorough and highly enjoyable technical and musical curriculum.’ Music Teacher
The Foundation Pianist Book 1
David Blackwell and Karen Marshall
A technical and musical curriculum for pianists at post Grade 1 level. Chapters on phrasing, legato and the use of dynamics, even finger work, articulation, melody and accompaniment, and part playing. Travel in time to the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods, and the 20th century. Music by Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, Clementi, Tchaikovsky, Holst, Bartók, and more.
‘The Foundation Pianist is in my view the real blockbuster that no teacher will want to be without.’ Andrew Eales, Pianodao
The Foundation Pianist Book 2
David Blackwell and Karen Marshall
A technical and musical curriculum for pianists at post Grade 2 level. Chapters on interpretation and expression, keyboard geography, agility, legato 3rds and 6ths, and syncopation. Travel in time to the Medieval, Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods, and the Jazz Age. Music by Rebikov, Handel, Haydn, Chopin, Saint-Saëns, Schubert, Purcell, and more.
‘A concentrated treasure house of material that will empower and inspire fledgling pianists. The books are presented clearly and logically, and progress with a feeling of fun, inspiration and a sense of adventure.’ Murray McLachlan, Chair of EPTA UK and Head of Keyboard, Chethams School of Music
