How many methods of piano teaching are there?

[go12_3]

I am aware of the Suzuki method, in which I do not teach.  As an instructor, I have ben teaching the method my piano professor taught me to my students.  I think playing the piano is an individual quest for a lifetime.  Our concept of method changes with each student because of their level of abilities, however, we can still instill them the basics of technique and music interpretation.  Which method is the best?  I don't know.  I have seen several pianists that play great with the method they have learned.  Or am I just on a whim.....just tossing out some thoughts for everyone to chat  about....

[shortyshort]

The best method should surely be the one that suits the student best.

As a former piano student, (25 yrs ago), i know that my teacher was good, but i had no choice in what i was learning.

This did not help, and probably had a great deal to do with my piano wilderness years.

[go12_3]

What I'm trying to say, probably didn't help any.  I suppose that whateve we as students were taught was a method that our instructors knew.  It's what we as pianists would be comfortable with.  I think I opened up a lame topic for the day....

[shortyshort]

I think I opened up a lame topic for the day....

No, I think "lucylucy" did that. 

[kitty on the keys]

As a teacher, I hear this question many, many times!!! We have all used, Alfred, Bastien, Hal Leonard, Thompson, and Faber. And just like students--we get bored. There is no bad method book series out there---just bad teachers. If you cannot creatively present concepts and objectives to the student--even if the method book is not clear---and it happens---then you are not doing your job as a teacher---there is much more on the page than the concept of the day---How are you as a teacher, going to effectively present this---and be successful---this is your test as a teacher.


kitty on the keys

[go12_3]

Say,  I have taught from the usual method books also.  I keep my teaching simple and easy so that my students will feel comfortable in learning notes, etc.   I do like the Faber & Faber.  All of my students are enjoying their books.  I use the lesson and performance books for the beginner to intermediate level, and teach technique and theory myself, when I feel the student needs to learn.  I use Fingerpower for Technique until Level 4, then the student is ready for the Hanon exercises.  I must say, there are several books in which teachers can select and a variety is a good thing. 

[Bob]

Many methods.  Along the Suzuki lines, don't forget Orff, Kodaly, and the others I'm forgetting.  I know there are more. 

And the older piano method books.  Like John Thompson. Lelia Flecther or some name like that is popping into my mind.

There was another technique series called Technic is Fun I remember seeing a few years ago.

How many?  Too many (maybe).