Keyboard for the Absolute Beginner: Keyboard/Piano Book & CD

Rodman's humor and warmth transform what could be intimidating into something genuinely enjoyable. The book moves at a pace that respects adults learning for the first time, never condescending, never rushing; each concept builds naturally on what came before. The included CD makes self-teaching viable and keeps momentum going between lessons.

Accessible and inviting. The tone is conversational and patient, matching the temperament of someone discovering an instrument for pleasure rather than under pressure. You'll play recognizable songs before you've learned everything there is to know about music theory, which builds confidence and keeps motivation alive.

Adults and teens approaching the keyboard with no prior experience, as well as music teachers seeking a straightforward, encouraging entry point for adult students or community music programs. This book works for anyone who plays music casually or wants to understand how keyboards work without formal conservatory training.

• Play through the CD demonstrations before attempting each exercise yourself. Hearing the melody and rhythm first anchors your expectation and makes reading the notation less abstract.
• Practice the fingerings shown in the book exactly as written, even when they feel awkward at first. They're designed to build the hand position and muscle memory that will make later pieces accessible.
• Work through one section at a time rather than skipping ahead. The progression from notes through time signatures and key signatures is intentional, and each foundation matters.

Use this as a standalone resource for adult community music classes or beginner keyboard workshops. It also works well as supplementary material in school music programs where students need reinforcement of foundational keyboard concepts outside the main method book.

• Reading notes on the treble clef
• Understanding time signatures and rhythmic notation
• Identifying and applying key signatures
• Correct finger positioning and basic fingering patterns
• Understanding whole steps and half steps
• Playing simple melodies with accurate rhythm