Frank Horvat
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Alfred Basic 1B
An Overview For The Parent

At this level, your child will begin to play longer and more technically challenging pieces. Since the books introduce these concepts in a gradual fashion, the student won't be aware of the growing difficulty. But no doubt, you should notice their practise time increase due to the length of the pieces. Students will be exposed to a variety of hand positions, using the pedal and a new system of counting which requires a good understanding of fractions.

Lesson Time: 1/2 hour per week

Books: To be supplied by the teacher. Parent will reimburse teacher at a later date.

Name of Book Description of Usage
Alfred's Piano Basic Course, Level 1B songbook
"Hey Old Man, It's A Small World"; A booklet accompanying Level 1B includes finger exercises, written theory work and songs by rote

Practise Time: approximately 20 to 25 minutes a day. Since children have difficulty understanding duration of time, I stress that they play each assigned song or exercise 5 times a day unless otherwise stated.

How Do I Know What They Are Supposed To Practise?
Pieces or exercises that are to be practised will have their page number circled and dated. If the piece was prepared well, the page will be given a "Happy Face" and no longer need to be practised.

Extras!

  • Practise Chart: This keeps track of practise habits since the student has to check off a spot on the chart after they practise. Students are rewarded with stars for their weekly effort. When they complete this level, they are given a special prize for their hard work!
  • Note Card Game: This will routinely end the lesson, a fun way for students to strengthen note reading.
  • Listen & Watch: Students will be given the opportunity to borrow recordings that will enrich their understanding and love for music.
  • Extra Pieces: Various songs in a variety of styles picked by the student.
  • Recitals: Held twice a year (early December & early June) for family & friends, these performances encourage students to prepare a piece (or pieces) in great detail and by memory.
  • Masterclass: At this informal gathering, held twice a year, a week before the Recital, students play their pieces for each other, make comments, and ask questions. Often, students feel uncomfortable and nervous playing in front of others. The Masterclass is an excellent way for the student to try out their piece(s) in front of their peers in a less stressed atmosphere.

In The Future...
Your child will move on to Level 2 of Alfred's Basic Course; the last of the beginner books. There they will learn more counting systems, scales and a variety of new styles of music including the Classics and the Blues.

» Child Chart

 

 

 



 
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