Posted by CarrieGirl:
Well I've done it again - I post something, then discover the answer for myself! :) I think after looking at the Adult series Book 2, it might be a better place to start the student. 3A assumes quite a bit, but the Adult Book 2 is picking things up at a good safe point, and it provides a wonderful and comprehensive overview of the fundamentals, introducing all the elements (i.e. pedalling, primary chords, intervals, technique etc) systematically. I can provide the supplementary pieces with the Literature series and Sonatinas over time, so that he is more than happy with the music he is playing. Gee, I hope I get better at figuring out where to place 'transfer' students, I find it requires a great deal of thought. I think I was stuck on the idea of '3A' due to the type of music the student showed me, but couldn't help but feel there were just too many gaps in his knowledge... so I then considered a level lower (2B)... but the 'adult' series is a much more suitable approach in every way. It's tricky placing transfer students, particularly adults as they are reluctant to tell you just how little they know, and would rather try to impress. I'm much more interested in knowing what they DON'T know :) So I can help them fill in the gaps and become more confident at playing the piano and have a more enjoyable experience :) I'd still welcome any thoughts you might have, and am appreciative of any wisdom offered x
Well I've done it again - I post something, then discover the answer for myself! :) I think after looking at the Adult series Book 2, it might be a better place to start the student. 3A assumes quite a bit, but the Adult Book 2 is picking things up at a good safe point, and it provides a wonderful and comprehensive overview of the fundamentals, introducing all the elements (i.e. pedalling, primary chords, intervals, technique etc) systematically. I can provide the supplementary pieces with the Literature series and Sonatinas over time, so that he is more than happy with the music he is playing. Gee, I hope I get better at figuring out where to place 'transfer' students, I find it requires a great deal of thought. I think I was stuck on the idea of '3A' due to the type of music the student showed me, but couldn't help but feel there were just too many gaps in his knowledge... so I then considered a level lower (2B)... but the 'adult' series is a much more suitable approach in every way. It's tricky placing transfer students, particularly adults as they are reluctant to tell you just how little they know, and would rather try to impress. I'm much more interested in knowing what they DON'T know :) So I can help them fill in the gaps and become more confident at playing the piano and have a more enjoyable experience :) I'd still welcome any thoughts you might have, and am appreciative of any wisdom offered x