Would like recommendations for books to teach dd8 to play our keyboard....

[Johanna]

I need an easy, self-taught book that will teach her how to play.

thanks

[Jeanne in MN]

That program has always intrigued me. I don't know that it's a self-teaching program, but supposedly a fun, easy way to learn how to play piano.

[Osaubi]

I just ordered Pianamals based on another group recommendation. I should get it in the mail, but you can look at samples at their website.

[PeterPan]

I know it's not what you were looking for, but I'm in the chorus of people who tried this and ended up getting a teacher. I'd suggest you pick who you'd want to be the teacher, say next year (when presumably she'd surpass your skills to guide), and use whatever texts that teacher uses. That way you don't have to buy new stuff when you start with a teacher. I started off with one curriculum, realized I wasn't savvy enough to teach it, tried another that I could do better with, then had to buy a THIRD series when I finally started her with a teacher!!! I would have been better to get the teacher from the start. We're more consistent with someone else teaching it, the results are better and FASTER, and the dynamic on her part is better. She LOVES having someone to play for. I hated that it was constantly turning into me criticizing her (no do it this way, too fast, do this). I teach her everything all day, and at some point you need some space, kwim? There's a lady around here, not the one I use but still, who teaches lessons for only $8 a lesson for beginners.

 

Also, you mentioned self-taught. I'm not sure if you literally meant that, but I think you're going to get a lot better results with an 8 yo if you have an experienced teacher. I've met adults who self-taught themselves piano and they are AWFUL. I'm sorry, as I'm sure there are some who've done better. It's just too easy to learn bad technique, bad habits, or just get a bad flavor in your mouth thinking it's too hard. My dd is 8 too, and that age really needs some guidance and help to get through the tedious, boring, easy stage and learn good habits. Having that teacher to play for helps. It's like you're paying them to praise efforts on stupid little ditties that you get tired of hearing. You want it just DONE and done perfectly so you can get back to math, while that teacher comes at it fresh and patient. Oh my yes, changing to a piano teacher was a good change for us!