Eric Steiner Piano Course, Book 2: Piano Book

Steiner's pedagogical philosophy centers on genuine musicianship rather than mechanical drill, making Book 2 a natural continuation that respects the student's readiness without artificial gaps or unnecessary review. The integration of folk music, classical masters, and original compositions keeps students engaged while building technique in authentic musical contexts. Teachers return to this course generation after generation because it trusts students to grow thoughtfully and treats them as musicians, not exercises to complete.

Opening Book 2 feels like continuing a conversation rather than starting fresh. The material balances the discipline of technique with the joy of playing recognizable folk songs and works by composers students respect, creating a sense of genuine musical progress rather than endless preparatory exercises.

Book 2 serves students who have completed the first volume and are ready to deepen their technical and musical foundation. The method works equally well for children and adult learners, whether in private studio instruction or self-directed study, and suits any student seeking steady, unhurried progress grounded in real musicianship.

• Work through pieces in the order presented; Steiner designed the sequence to establish each new technical or theoretical concept before introducing it in music.
• Pay attention to the theory sections embedded throughout the book. Understanding harmonic function and form deepens interpretation and prevents mechanical playing.
• Balance the folk material and original compositions with the classical repertoire to maintain variety and motivation across practice sessions.
• Use the technical studies to address specific challenges in the pieces, rather than treating them as separate from the student's musical development.

Use Book 2 as the core method for private piano instruction with students showing consistent commitment. The repertoire and technical studies provide ample material for studio recitals, examinations, and informal performances throughout the year without requiring supplementary solo collections.

• Key signatures beyond three sharps and flats
• Chord progressions and harmonic analysis in tonal contexts
• Legato pedaling and damper control
• Sight-reading in varied styles (folk music, classical, original compositions)
• Hand independence and scale passages at comfortable tempos
• Music notation literacy in major and minor keys