
Top 10 things to know
Level 2A Concepts
- Reading systematically with intervals, rhythm patterns, 5-finger scales, and chords
- Three 8th note patterns:
- 5-finger scales and chords: C-Cm, D-Dm, G-Gm, A-Am
- Phrasing with cresc. and dim.
- Transposition of 5-finger pieces
- A lead sheet for applied theory
- Teacher duets for ensemble
- Five Level 2A Technique Secrets:
– Firm Fingertips
– Light Thumb
– Fast Fingers
– Hands-Together Coordination
– Wrist Float-off - Note that Scale Book 1 presents 5-finger major and minor scales, improvisations with teacher duets, and short 5-finger classics to transpose by Beyer, Kohler, and Reinagle.
- For play-along Audio fun: pianoadventures.com/audio


Top 5 things to see
Level 2A Pedagogy Pointers
- Reading with “guide notes” builds confidence. Start lessons with E-G-B Mouse Adventures for creative, fun “note drill.” (Lesson Bk. pp. 6-7)
- Help students analyze, clap, and write by memory the three 8th-note patterns used at Level 2A. (Lesson Bk. p.10).
- The teacher duets give 8th-note practice within a more complex rhythmic setting. (Ex. Lesson Bk. p. 11)
- Transposing requires reading by interval.
- Preparatory Piano Literature is a good choice for students ready for a classical music challenge.


Top 5 things to do
Level 2A Teaching Actions
- Explore expressive 5-finger scales with a cresc. going up and a dim. going down.
- Consider teaching all 12 major 5-finger scales. Analyze using the formula: whole-whole-half-whole. (Lesson Bk. pp. 62-63)
- Keep creatively reviewing earlier pieces through transposition, a faster tempo, making up a longer ending, etc. Award a sticker for each review piece.
- Memorize one piece from each unit.
- Consider offering a ShowTime book.


The best advice
Start or end the lesson with a duet. Let the student choose the piece and set the tempo.