Premier Piano Course, Theory 3: Piano Book

Theory work becomes purposeful when it connects directly to repertoire students are already learning and enjoying. The Learning Links in this book build on concepts from the Lesson Book, making abstract theory concrete through music students actually play. The combination of written exercises, ear training (Now Hear This), and sight reading (Now Play This) creates multiple entry points for understanding music literacy.

The theory work here feels practical rather than punitive, with activities that puzzle-like and rewarding. Fun Zones break up concept practice with activities that keep young learners invested in the work.

This theory book is designed for elementary pianists working through Level 3 of Premier Piano Course. Students benefit from reinforcement that moves beyond the lesson material, deepening their grasp of music fundamentals while staying engaged through varied activity types.

• Complete the Learning Links sections after introducing new concepts in the Lesson Book so students immediately see how theory applies to repertoire they're actually playing.
• Use the Now Hear This exercises to develop listening habits beyond lesson time; these short ear-training drills work well as warm-up activities.
• Have students complete Now Play This sight-reading exercises before drilling the same passages in their Lesson Book to build confidence with unfamiliar notation.

Assign theory pages alongside corresponding lessons to reinforce concepts while they're fresh. The Learning Links expand musical awareness beyond the immediate technical skill, creating a more complete understanding of how theory serves musical expression.

• Music notation symbols and their meanings
• Interval identification and construction
• Chord recognition and basic harmony
• Rhythmic notation and counting
• Sight reading fluency at Level 3
• Ear training through melodic and harmonic listening
• Application of theory concepts to repertoire