Bonnie Gritton - Ph.D., N.C.T.M.

Benefits of Studying Classical Piano Music

If a student seriously pursues classical piano studies he/she will acquire improved:

Concentration

Discipline

Persistence

Patience

Dedication

The following musical skills will be developed:

Rhythmic understanding

Ability to control tempo

Ability to hear pitch relations in both a melodic and harmonic sense

Ability to control tone quality, dynamics, articulation

Ability to identify the form and structure of music

Ability to sightread music

Ability to understand music theory and music history

Ability to play with dexterity, speed, and co-ordination, always with the intent to produce a colorful, musical sound

Ability to play with relaxation and freedom from injury

Ability to communicate with emotion and imagination

In addition, the following non-musical benefits will be observed:

Physical co-ordination

Hand-Eye co-ordination

Development of small motor skills

Improved fitness of muscles

Joint health, especially for conditions such as arthritis

Improved Memory

Ability to multi-task

Ability to organize

Ability to manage and make the best use of time

Ability to set and achieve goals

Ability to follow instructions

Ability to appreciate quality work

Ability to solve problems

Ability to honor commitments

Ability to see tasks through to conclusion

Social skills will be improved by learning about

Sensitivity to emotion

Empathy with others

Self-confidence

Responsibility to others

Competing with a desire to improve oneself and with an appreciation of the accomplishments of others

Life altering experiences will occur as students feel:

The spirit of giving to others

The desire to bring joy to others

A reverence and respect for life

The enjoyment of work

The magic of communicating through music

The continuity of the human spirit throughout all ages of history