Half-Hour Lessons in Music - Class Work for Beginners at the Piano #230803

Two years ago a short series of these "Half-Hour Lessons in Music" was published in "The Ladies' Home Journal." It was received with such favor, and so many letters came asking for a continuation of the series, that the present volume with more than double the original number of lessons is the result.<br><br>In writing out these lessons, which have been in constant use for many years in both my private and class teaching, my aim has been to see from the children's point of view, and to explain and illustrate things musical in a way that would appeal to their imagination as well as reason. Children are naturally enthusiastic and optimistic, especially in beginning the study of the piano, and in these lessons I have emphasized both these qualities, and striven to guide the one and foster the other.<br><br>Dividing the half hour into periods of five to ten minutes, and definitely but concisely bringing one idea before the children's mind, be it key-board or finger play, notation or rhythm, with subsequent unremitting drill, is what fixes the subject firmly.<br><br>For all foundational study, class work is superior to private, giving the children the great advantages of companionship, comparison, and competition. The musical games, composer, and opera parties, are effective ways of impressing upon the children's minds a knowledge of the masters and their works.<br><br>To obtain the best results with these lessons the mothers should own the book, as, by carefully reading it, they can keep in touch with their children's work, and, by repetition at home of the "composer story," and by asking questions, greatly aid their progress.