Supplies
Acoustic Piano
An acoustic piano is essential to study piano. Digital pianos use digitally generated sound, so it is impossible to change the tone. What you get is what you get. While the sound is basically good on a digital piano, young children must learn the necessary finger control to create their own good sound. Additionally, piano players will introduce tone that can only be created using an acoustic piano (loud, soft, harsh, warm, etc.), that beginning players must master. Digital pianos do not allow for these changes in tone, so a student studying learning at a digital piano is missing critical ear and finger development. ESPS teachers recommend that you buy the best acoustic piano you can afford. All of our teachers are happy to consult and advise you on the purchase of your piano.
Piano Bench
Adjustable benches are ideal for young children learning piano. As they grow, children need different-sized benches, according to their height. An adjustable one will grow with your child, allowing for correct posture at all ages. It will also allow for the proper bench height if you have multiple children studying piano within your family. Your teacher will help in determining the correct height for the student.
Footstool
Young Suzuki students use adjustable footstools so that their feet are in a resting position while playing and not dangling uncomfortably. Developing good piano posture is very important. If the feet are dangling, the whole body moves while playing, which can strain the lower back and spine. The arms will also move in unexpected ways, leading to pain in the back, shoulder or wrists. Footstools are often available in an adjustable shelf style that will grow with your child. Alternatively, families can build their own adjustable footstools in a box style. The minimum surface area should be 9 X 15 inches. The height should be sufficient to provide a solid support for the student's feet.
Music Books and CDs
The Suzuki piano repertoire is contained in a series of seven music books. As your child progresses, each of these books is required for learning. Professional recordings can be found and downloaded so that students can hear the music played really well before attempting it. Beginning students must hear the music played very well, so they know what to strive for. It is important that students build their musical memory based on professional recordings.
Visit our resources page to find out how to build your own foot stool and other great tips.
“The words ‘Music will save the world’ are held deep in my heart.”