Technical exercises and warm-ups carefully prepared to fit precisely with materials presented in the Lesson Books. Each exercise is coordinated page-by-page with the Prep Course Lesson Books.
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Dr. Willard A. Palmer established himself as a prolific composer and pedagogue across multiple instruments, creating nearly 800 published works that span accordion, piano, guitar, and choral literature. His compositions have been translated into German, Japanese, French, Dutch, and Spanish, reflecting their widespread adoption in music education worldwide. A accomplished performer from childhood, Palmer performed on radio at age 13 and went on to study at the Conservatory of Leipzig on scholarship before joining the University of Houston faculty, where he taught accordion for 18 years.
Palmer's scholarly contributions elevated him to international recognition, particularly for his expertise in Baroque music ornamentation and Classical performance practice. His meticulous research formed the foundation for the acclaimed Alfred Masterworks series and informed his pedagogical approach to technique building. In recognition of these achievements, he received a Doctor of Humanities degree in 1971 and a Doctor of Music degree in 1983. Palmer served as director of the Riemenschneider Bach Institute and was a member of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.
Why we love this
Palmer designed these exercises to reinforce exactly what students encounter in the Prep Course Lesson Books, eliminating the disconnect between technical work and repertoire that can frustrate young pianists. The coordination is page-by-page, so you're not hunting for relevant material or wondering whether a particular exercise prepares students for what comes next. This alignment makes practice feel purposeful rather than supplementary.
What to expect
Straightforward and purposeful. Each exercise distills a single technical concept into a compact, playable form. Students experience the satisfaction of solid technique supporting the music they're learning, rather than feeling like technique is something separate from real playing.
Who it's for
Young beginning pianists working through Alfred's Basic Piano Prep Course who need focused technical preparation for each lesson. Teachers using the Prep Course materials will find this book essential for building finger strength, hand position, and coordination without leaving the systematic structure of the curriculum.
How to get the most out of it
Work through exercises on the same day as the corresponding lesson book page; this reinforcement cements technique while the material is fresh.
Treat each exercise as a warm-up, not a chore. These are designed to build finger independence and hand position awareness in short, manageable doses.
Encourage students to notice what each exercise targets. When they understand why an exercise matters for the piece they're learning, they practice with intention.
How to use it
Integrate these exercises into every lesson as a bridge between previous repertoire and new material. The 24 pages span the entire Prep Course B level, so consistent daily use alongside the lesson book creates a complete technical foundation that students carry forward.
Skills your students will build
Hand position and finger alignment at the keyboard
Finger independence and strength in both hands
Coordination between treble and bass clef
Legato and staccato touch control
Reading intervals and note recognition across both staves
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