Piano Adventures by Faber - Lesson Book

Primer Level

The 2nd Edition Primer Lesson Book introduces the keyboard, note values, and the grand staff. Students play in C 5-finger scale patterns, develop recognition of steps and skips, and learn letter names independent of finger number. Musicianship is built through the use of dynamics and coloristic experimentation with the pedal. The book is organized into units which represent the major concepts and skills. As new units are introduced, earlier concepts and skills are constantly reviewed.

Level 1

The 2nd Edition Level 1 Lesson Book introduces all the notes of the grand staff, elementary chord playing, and the concept of tonic and dominant notes. Students play in varied positions, reinforcing reading skills and recognizing intervals through the 5th. Musicianship is built with the introduction of legato and staccato touches. This level continues the interval orientation to reading across the full range of the Grand Staff. The 5-finger approach is presented here in a fresh, musically appealing way.

Level 2A

The 2nd Edition Level 2A Lesson Book follows Piano Adventures Level 1. The book opens with a Note Reading Guide and an introduction to eighth note rhythm patterns. Students work with 5-finger transposition, functional harmony, and musical phrases. Exploration of C, G, D and A major and minor 5-finger positions builds on intervallic reading skills that were introduced in the earlier level. Appealing repertoire reinforces key concepts and encourages students to explore musical expression through varied dynamics and tempos. Selections include well-known classics from the great composers and original compositions.

Level 2B

The 2nd Edition Level 2B Lesson Book offers a systematic approach to scales, primary chords (I, IV, V7), and transposition for the keys of C, G, and F major. This new edition features nine new songs, plus enhanced arrangements of favorite pieces from the first edition. The new “Scale and Chord Adventures” appendix offers teachers the flexibility to explore major and minor scale and chord patterns in all twelve keys.

Level 3A

The 2nd Edition of the Level 3A Lesson Book is an exciting, educational refresh that launches students into early intermediate playing. More choices are given for in-depth instruction of technique, theory, transposition, and creativity. Outstanding new repertoire includes pieces by Tchaikovsky, Türk, Reinagle, plus traditional songs and Faber originals.

Level 3B

The 2nd Edition of the Level 3B Lesson Book is a fresh, dynamic update for early-intermediate students. This is the level of contrasts: fast fingerwork contrasted with sonorous tonal colors, and traditional harmonies mingled with contemporary sounds. Compositions from Dvorak, Rebikov, and Liszt are included along with new Faber originals.

Level 4

The 2nd Edition Level 4 Lesson Book follows Piano Adventures Level 3B. The book is arranged by related major and minor keys, grounding the repertoire. The emphasis on root position V7 chords, arpeggios, and “Power Scales” links applied theory to the pieces being studied. Expressive repertoire selections build a strong foundation in harmony and technique.

Level 5

Level 5 continues to build musicianship with the circle of 5ths, cadences, flat key signatures, and the three forms of the minor scale. The use of octaves, arpeggios, and dynamic playing across the range of the keyboard develops pianistic skills. Contents include: Autumn Ballad • Ballade (Burgmuller) • Blue Etude • Carillon Fantasia • The Chase (Burgmuller) • Coral Reef Etude • Fanfare on America • Hot Pursuit • Jazz Reflection • Pomp and Circumstance • Rhythm Flight • Risoluto • Rolling River Etude • and more.