Succeeding at the Piano Lesson Book - Preparatory (2nd edition): Preparatory Piano Book

Marlais built this series around a refreshing premise: let students play real pieces early and often, then layer in technique work as needed for each individual. The flexibility to mix and match with supplemental materials means you're not locked into one learning pathway for every student in your studio, which is rare at this level.

Inviting and colorful, with musical pieces that feel accessible without being condescending. Students experience the satisfaction of playing actual songs rather than isolated exercises, which sustains the joy that drew them to piano in the first place.

Beginning pianists of any age who need a structured yet flexible entry point into music reading and keyboard technique. Teachers seeking a method that keeps motivation high by balancing repertoire with targeted skill-building.

• Encourage students to explore the colorful illustrations alongside the notation; visual storytelling helps younger pianists connect to the music before they sit at the keyboard.
• Use the extensive supplemental materials to address specific technical hurdles without disrupting the flow of repertoire playing in the main book.
• Have students play pieces multiple times across several weeks rather than once and moving on; this builds confidence and reveals nuances they missed initially.

Start here with new students and let the flexibility of the series adapt to your teaching priorities. Some teachers move through the repertoire sequentially while others pull supplemental technique books in tandem to address hand position or finger independence as those needs emerge.

• Reading notes in treble clef across the grand staff
• Basic rhythmic values and time signatures (2/4, 3/4, 4/4)
• Proper hand position and posture at the keyboard
• Finger independence and dexterity through varied repertoire
• Understanding of musical expression and phrasing in context
• Fluency with sharps and flats in early keys