(scroll down for free download)
Key Finder Cards are great, but, they aren't enough. When it comes to learning how to play the piano, finding the right keys and knowing the names is the first barrier that needs to be overcome.
The long game and cognitive lag. All of the exercises I'm designing these days are for playing the long game. The concepts are broken down into small chunks, and are fairly easy to understand for most students. The instructions are concrete, with one or more specific outcomes in mind. Once a skill is mastered, the next one is layered on top. This develops a strong foundation that works with any other method and music making.
Results will not be instantaneous. Do not expect to be playing in Carnegie Hall overnight.
What you can expect in the first 2-3 months, or at least what I am seeing in my own studio:
students are comfortable playing on any key on the piano
students are developing a strong sense of pulse (different from rhythm)
students are able to sit and play at the piano for longer stretches of time without losing focus
students are able to maintain a hand shape of a 5th, 6th and 7th (if their hands are big enough) to transpose into different keys
students have left hand independence
This is the first in a series with the end goal of being able to play a 12 bar blues pattern with multiple variations of rhythm in all 12 keys with a consistent steady beat for 3-5 minute stretches.
Of course, there are other benefits, but I'll save that for another post.
Questions for the curious:
Which cards do I use?
For this exercise, the Boogie Card from the Boogie and Spy card set
Is a card necessary?
No, but it helps students overcome the barrier of playing in all keys.
You will find it helpful for the first few weeks, but pretty soon it won't be necessary
Who's it for? (What came before?)
This exercise is for beginning students and younger students with small hands who can't reach a 7th easily. It is also for students who struggle with keeping a steady rhythmic pulse
What do I do?
Follow the instructions on the downloadable worksheet (see picture above)
How long does this take?
The exercise generally takes 2-5 minutes of playing if you do two different keys. However, it can be done longer if you (or your student) is enjoying it.
I'm playing other methods and pieces, does it matter?
No, this warm-up can be done independently, or as a supplement to whatever else you are doing.
How do I know to move on?
When all 8 rhythms can be played and maintained easily on all 12 keys around the circle with a steady metronome for at least 2 minute intervals
What's next?
Next level rhythm patterns, 12 bar blues pattern, playing in combos, taking over the world, Carnegie Hall, Preservation Hall, . . .
If seeing how the worksheet works and hearing how it sounds helps you. Watch it here.
The last few minutes of the video are a demo of all 8 rhythms.
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