Piano methods books provide a structured system to help teach people of all skill levels how to play the instrument. Whether working with an instructor, or learning on your own, you will most likely use some kind of method book.
NLS holds many braille piano instruction books in its collection, which are available for loan to eligible U.S citizens enrolled in the program. We recommend that beginning pianists select current method books, whether studying with a teacher or on their own.
This page lists current popular piano methods books available as instruction for the beginning piano student.
The following titles link to fuller bibliographic information in the NLS Online International Union Catalog. Links to additional online content are included when available.
"Piano Adventures® (pianoadventures.com External) is the teaching method of choice at leading university programs and music studios around the world. This student-centered approach uses analysis, creativity, and expression to develop a 'musical mind and heart.' The delightful, pianistic pieces and creative theory pages, combined with an outstanding technical approach encourage practice and progress—with adventure!"
The materials listed below are available in braille music format.
Published by Kjos Music Company in San Diego, James Walter Bastien's piano methods books numbered over 300 at the time of his death. The Bastien method is notable in that he refrains from teaching beginning pianist how to read music notation. Instead, Bastien teaches students to play simple tunes by placing their hands on designated keys and following a set of numbered finger patterns.
The materials listed below are available in braille music format.
