Where do I start piano as a violinist?
Hey everyone, I'm trying to learn but not sure where or what online platforms are good except for Pianote and Tonebase. I'm currently a violinist completing my ARCT and it's required to have grade 6 Piano as a requirement to get my certificate. I know that there are some courses on tonebase for beginners like Seymour Bernstein's My First Piano lesson and Piano 101 by Dominic Cheli. It would be nice to get some suggestions. Thanks!
1 reply
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Hi James,
I don’t know if you have come across Key-Notes before by Albert Frantz but I would highly recommend it for someone at your stage of learning. It is based completely on classical piano playing. Classical in the broadest sense not just the era of course.
Tonebase is excellent for many things but it does not provide a clear, structured and incremental path for beginners.
Albert is a top class concert pianist and a piano educator of the very highest standard and capability. His knowledge and ability to provide clear, structured, step by step instruction is second to none. The method is predominantly based around pieces, increasing in complexity and sophistication as you progress. There are specific elements to cover theory, scales & arpeggios and technique. There are also some brilliant interactive tools on the platform that will help you to learn pieces and better understand the underlying theory. I can’t do it full justice here so definitely best to have a look.
As you go through the course you will receive incredibly detailed information about not only how to play the pieces but about theory and music history. Of course, you already have the benefit of being an experienced musician through your violin studies. This is all paced superbly and you get what you need at the right time without ever being overwhelmed. Whilst aimed at beginner and intermediate students I believe there are many more advanced players that would benefit from Key-Notes due to the comprehensive nature of the instruction provided that would complement their knowledge and plug any gaps - particularly for those that may be largely self taught.
I have no affiliation with Albert other than to be a user of Key-Notes. I have explored many online and other resources as someone who has been a self learner for much of my piano journey and I don’t think there is anything out there that comes close to Key-Notes in providing what you are looking for. I offer these comments as a genuinely satisfied and highly impressed member of Key-Notes and I hope you find them helpful.
As a side note, Albert is a member of Tonebase.
The other or additional option is obviously a teacher. If you are already a life time member of Tonebase, the Premium + with coaching is excellent value. I have recently signed up. There are many coaches to choose from. I can highly recommend mine who is Alex Thomas - he is superb!
Good luck with your piano studies.
Regards
Greg