Premier Piano Course: Theory Books

Teachers rely on Premier Piano Course, Theory 1A by Dennis Alexander as the standard entry point for young pianists learning music fundamentals. The 1A and 1B levels together form the core of beginner theory instruction, with 1A remaining the most widely adopted theory book in the series. As students advance, Theory 2A and 2B continue the same pedagogical voice, ensuring consistency between method and theory work.

Dennis Alexander has authored over 400 publications for Alfred Music and built an international reputation as one of the most prolific composers of educational piano music across all levels. His work defines this series and has set the standard for how theory instruction integrates with piano study. Gayle Kowalchyk brings decades of piano pedagogy experience from her faculty positions at California State University, Northridge and Eastern Illinois University, where she coordinated group piano and directed preparatory programs. E. L. Lancaster spent nearly two decades as Professor of Music at the University of Oklahoma teaching piano pedagogy and group piano before joining Alfred Music as Executive Editor for Piano. Victoria McArthur directed the Piano Pedagogy program at Florida State University and has authored or coauthored more than 80 publications, including her work on the Premier Piano Course series. Martha Mier is an internationally recognized composer whose educational music for all levels, including the Jazz, Rags & Blues series, has made her one of today's most popular piano educators.