Bastien Piano Basics Primer Level - Learn to Play Four Book Set - Includes Primer Level Piano, Theory, Technic, and Performance Books (Original Version)

I recently purchased this set to begin teaching my 10 year old grandson piano. I have been playing for about 50 years and I used to teach piano many many years ago. The methods in these books is somewhat different than the methods I had used in the past (which also worked well with great success) but I no longer had any beginning books and hadn't taught in quite a few years, so I decided to try these. My only complaint for now is the way it is organized. You have jump back and fourth between the various books. The Piano book is the mainstream, then as you progress through this book, at certain points you have to jump to one or more of the other books and then back to the Piano book. In my opinion, these other sections could have (should have) been streamlined into one book for easier following and continuity. However, the material appears to be done well, so for now I will give it a somewhat generous 4 stars. Once we complete the primer and progress to Level 1, I will update my review if needed.

I am a piano teacher and this book series has always been my choice because the four books in the set make a complete piano course. The Technic book is a book of skill building exercises that can be used for warm ups. The Theory book is a workbook-like book that allows the student to study the music concepts such as notes so they understand them when they see them in their music. The Piano book takes the concepts learned in the theory book and introduces them in their lesson's songs. The Performance book contains fun, slightly longer songs that are intended for the final mastery of lesson concepts. All of the books are complete with fun illustrations that go with the songs and concepts.This Primer level is the level I use for my second graders. It begins with practicing on sets of black keys then works into the C position. It has a number of variations of songs students recognize which helps them learn the songs faster, and they can proudly tell their parents that they can play that song. Some pieces include a duet accompaniment for the teacher to play with the student upon mastery of the piece. The concepts are introduced at a steady pace that will not overwhelm students, but can be increased to adapt to quick learners.I would highly recommend this level and the complete Bastien Piano Basics series to anyone looking for a complete piano course. I learned to play the piano with this series and found the concepts I learned from these books set a wonderful stage for advancement into the intermediate series.

Make sure you get the age appropriate level. Very colorful pictures and easy to read exercises.I didn't read carefully when I ordered my first set of Level 1. It was to advanced for my 8 year old granddaughter who had no musical experience. The Primer level for 7-11 is just right. I like the idea of the 4 books because it doesn't get boring and is varied so they learn many different ways.

Most piano teachers are allowing the students to choose which books they use if they have a preference. I have only taught seven piano beginners in my life, but Bastien is the set I use each time. Two of my own children have switched courses at the higher levels, but I think the primer and level one books are laid out very nicely in Bastien and give the children plenty of time to learn each new skill before moving on to the next.

These books showed up in pristine condition. I bought them for my 7yo daughter for Christmas as I'm planning to teach her piano on my own until things get back to "normal." I used these books myself when I was learning to play the piano, and they're just perfect for beginners!! I don't mind flipping back and forth between books (that was a complaint from a review I read prior to purchase). They do such a good job of introducing piano players to the basics in a fun and educational way. We're off to a great start!

These piano books are perfect for beginners. I have three children who are learning to play piano and these books came highly recommended from our piano teacher.They are easy to understand and the cartoon illustrations keep kids interested.

I’m a piano teacher and I love this set of books for my students. They are learning so much about music and theory as well as becoming skilled piano players. Progress happens every week! Highly recommend this curriculum!

Great set of books. Recommended by my child’s piano teacher. Came in quickly and in great condition. Good deal for the price (piano curriculum can add up)!