This 2007 edition has been updated to match the new Certificate of Merit Technical Requirements for Piano, 2007 Piano Syllabus. Ms. Johnson has written CM theory and sight-reading tests for MTAC.

Each book in Bastien Theory Boosters is a handy 6" x 9". The series coordinates perfectly with any method and introduces theory concepts with games, puzzles, mazes and riddles. Each activity book focuses on a single theory concept so it's easy for students to grasp one before moving on to the next. The twelve book series starts with Book 1 Naming White Keys and finishes with Book 12 Naming Accidentals. It's a fun way to reinforce theory concepts!

Basic Library
This comprehensive written theory series is both versatile and effective. It presents music theory with a step-by-step approach that is fun and straightforward. Students may go as fast as desired since the materials are self-explanatory, a particularly appealing feature for older or more experienced students. The series features clear explanations, a variety of activities, and a flexible, moderate pace. Each book is 5 1/2" x 8 1/2" and 83 pages.

This 2007 edition has been updated to match the new Certificate of Merit Technical Requirements for Piano, 2007 Piano Syllabus. Please note: These products are only available to customers in the state of California.

Editors' Choice
Comprehensive Ear Training is a progressively leveled series of ear-training practice sessions on CD. Each CD offers a variety of formats for training the ear, all of which are recorded on an acoustic piano. The series includes rhythm, melody, interval, cadence, chord and meter exercises. Each CD comes with an answer booklet for immediate feedback. The Grade 1 CD includes 32 practice sessions, appropriate for the late elementary-level piano student. Each practice session on the Grade 1 CD includes two rhythm clapback exercises in 2/4 or 3/4 time and three melody playback exercises of just four notes. The series progresses gradually to the final, "Diploma" CD, at the advanced level. The "Diploma" CD includes 24 practice sessions: two meter identification exercises in 2/4, 3/4, 6/8 or 9/8; six interval identification exercises of any interval within a major 9th above a given note and any interval within an octave below a given note; one chord identification exercise of chords in root position on the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th and 6th degrees of the scale; and two melody playback exercises. The series may be used with any piano method and is based on the Royal Conservatory of Music (RCME) and Royal American Conservatory (RACE) standards.

Counting Time is a great supplement for students of any age looking for extra help or a brush-up on rhythm. It provides students with a visual and aural opportunity to focus only on rhythm. Counting Time covers whole notes through 32nd notes and rests; 4/4, 3/4, 2/4, 3/8, 6/8, 9/8, 12/8 time signatures; syncopation; and much more. The book starts off with very basic rhythms (whole, half, quarter notes and rests) and advances carefully to the more advanced rhythms. By the end of the book, students are working with sixteenth, thirty-second notes and rests, dotted rhythms, and syncopation. May be used with any method of instruction. It's a unique approach in that empty boxes/diagrams are provided under each rhythm for the smallest note-value represented, to be filled in by the student. Students are also expected to tap, sing, and/or play each rhythm.

Editors' Choice
This wonderful series is a step-by-step guide that teaches students how to compose. Book 1 is written at the early elementary level and introduces students to the art of original composition. It features the following composition tools: range, damper pedal, dynamics, tempo, melody, harmony, repeated patterns, conversations, meter, and grand staff. Book 2 is written at the elementary level. It features the following: melodic shaping, phrasing, octave displacement, accidentals, major chords, minor chords, articulation, tempo changes, motif, and form. Book 3 is written at the late elementary level. It features the following: eighth notes, syncopation, sequences, phrasing, crescendo and diminuendo, musical high point, primary chords, pandiatonicism, upbeats and downbeats, and song lyrics.

This course specifically targets Music Teachers Association of California's Certificate of Merit. There are 15-30 exercises in each level. Includes an instructional forward, CD, answer key, and Congratulations at the end of the book.

Ear Without Fear is a comprehensive ear-training program designed for all pianists. Each level has different chapters which reinforce listening techniques and solfege with dictation. Each book comes with a practice CD. This series is great to use with any method.