Basic Timing for the Pianist: Piano Book

Small's 25 years of professional dance band and orchestral work gave him a rare insight into what rhythmic precision actually demands in performance. Rather than abstract exercises, these 105 short studies tackle the specific timing issues that trip up young pianists during real playing. The progression moves deliberately from simple to complex, allowing students to build confidence rather than frustration.

The book reads as practical and matter-of-fact, built on the premise that timing problems can be solved with the right exercises in the right order. Small's background in professional ensembles means there is no unnecessary decoration here; each exercise isolates one timing challenge clearly, builds it thoroughly, then moves forward. Students will notice themselves playing with greater security and less second-guessing.

Late elementary and early intermediate pianists who struggle with rhythm, note values, or rhythmic consistency are the primary audience. Studio teachers will find this especially valuable for students whose musicality outpaces their technical control over time. It also serves pianists transitioning from slower folk song arrangements to pieces with more varied rhythmic demands.

• Treat each exercise as a complete musical moment, not a drill. Even five-bar studies deserve genuine phrasing and attention to tone.
• Work through the book sequentially. Small designed the progression deliberately, with earlier exercises establishing foundations that later ones rely on.
• Use a metronome sparingly at first. Develop internal timing awareness by tapping the beat while playing, then remove the tap.
• Revisit exercises from earlier pages periodically. Timing problems often resurface under pressure; returning to mastered material strengthens muscle memory.

Assign these exercises as supplemental technical work alongside repertoire lessons, not as standalone material. A student learning a piece with syncopation or mixed meters will benefit from a targeted exercise from this book that addresses that specific rhythmic concept. The short length of each study makes it realistic for busy practice schedules.

• Reading and executing basic note values (whole, half, quarter, eighth notes) with precision
• Maintaining steady pulse and tempo awareness without constant metronome dependence
• Recognizing and playing rhythmic patterns that recur across different musical contexts
• Coordinating hands when right and left hands have different rhythmic figures
• Understanding how rests affect timing and phrasing