Kawai Piano Prices: Masterwork Classics, Level 1-2 (Alfred Masterwork Editions) [Paperback] Review

Masterwork Classics, Level 1-2 [Paperback]

This Book/CD combination is hard to beat for someone who wants to start playing classical music from the get-go, rather than a lot of children's songs or folk songs.It is also a good value.It includes scores in easy to read format for 29 simple compositions, from baroque to 20th century.These are not watered-down versions of well-known pieces or popular melodies, but rather original classical compositions written specifically for the novice.Most are ½ page or 1 page, and no page turning is required.This is a great supplement to any method book, and provides at least several weeks worth of fine early material. I have been using the PIANO HANDBOOK (Carl Humphries) but realized I needed additional early material since that book moves so quickly.

The CD, which includes each of these pieces, is well played and nicely recorded.The CD is invaluable--not only to hear how the songs are intended to sound, but also to better choose which ones to work on (especially if, like me, you're self-taught).I've selected 12 of the pieces to work on over the next few weeks, starting with two, and adding a new one each week. These songs are appealing enough that I'll probably be playing several of them for a long time.I've also purchased the Level 3 Masterwork Classics and can hardly wait to get started with that.........but first things first.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Masterwork Classics, Level 1-2 (Alfred Masterwork Editions) [Paperback]

Product Description:
A progressive repertoire series designed to motivate students while allowing them to progress evenly and smoothly from the earliest classics toward intermediate literature.These pieces are from the standard classical literature, chosen to appeal both to teacher and student. Each volume comes with a corresponding CD.

PIanist Kim O'Reilly Newman holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Illinois. She has performed throughout North America and Europe with the Hambro Quartet of Pianos and was an editor and recording pianist for Alfred Publishing. Kim is a brain tumor survivor and now specializes in performing music for the left hand.