Alfred's Basic Piano Prep Course: Theory Books

Teachers keep coming back to Theory Book A, B, and C in this series, with A and B being particular favorites for their combination of clear instruction and manageable scope. Palmer's Theory Book D provides the next step for intermediate students ready to deepen their understanding.

Willard A. Palmer was a prolific composer and pedagogue who published 789 works across multiple instruments and styles. His piano methods, including Theory Book A, have become standard tools in beginning piano instruction worldwide, translated into German, Japanese, French, Dutch, and Spanish. Palmer's work as a church musician and music educator informed his gift for writing music and pedagogical materials that engage young learners.

Amanda Vick Lethco co-authored this entire theory book series alongside Palmer and Manus, bringing her expertise as Professor Emeritus of Piano Pedagogy at the University of Texas at Austin. Her studies at Juilliard, Chicago Musical College, and Columbia University shaped her understanding of how young pianists best internalize music theory concepts. Lethco's collaborative work on Alfred's Basic Piano Library has influenced generations of piano teachers and their students.

Morton Manus served as president of Alfred Music Publishing from 1952 to 2016, stewarding the company through decades of growth and ensuring that foundational piano methods remained accessible to teachers and students. His leadership helped establish Alfred as the publisher of choice for early piano study in schools and private studios.