John Kinyon's Basic Training Course, Book 1: Keyboard Percussion Book

Kinyon designed this method to work seamlessly across individual lessons, like-instrument classes, and full band settings, which means a single book supports your entire percussion section regardless of how you schedule instruction. The writing reflects decades of classroom experience, not theory; each exercise builds logically on what comes before without wasting rehearsal time on busywork.

Clear and purposeful. Each page builds incrementally with short, musical exercises that feel like real playing rather than isolated drills. The progression respects the instrument and the student's intelligence, introducing reading and technique together without overwhelming either.

Beginning keyboard percussionists in concert band settings, whether they're working one-on-one with a teacher, studying in a section group, or learning within a full ensemble context. This book serves any student picking up mallets for the first time, from middle school through early high school.

• Coordinate mallet heights across your section early. Consistent stick and mallet positioning prevents bad habits from forming and improves ensemble sound from the first exercises.
• Use the exercises as duets whenever possible. Having students play the same material at different times teaches listening and balance without requiring separate parts.
• Start slowly enough that students can focus on stroke accuracy rather than speed. Kinyon's progression assumes deliberate practice; rushing the early pages undermines the entire sequence.

Pair this with your band's full method book so keyboard players advance at the same pace as your wind section, staying integrated rather than sidelined. The 32-page scope works well for a single school year of consistent instruction, allowing you to move through all beginning material while your band tackles the same level repertoire.

• Reading treble clef in standard notation
• Mallet grip and stroke control on pitched percussion
• Quarter notes, half notes, and whole notes in simple meter
• Rest recognition and counting accuracy
• Dynamic control (forte and piano)
• Ensemble listening and balance in four-part writing