The genius plan of David Loftis was to feature a key signature a day and build from there. Generously, instead of starting with the key of E, which would be easy on guitars, he started in the key of C which would be easy on keyboardists.
BEGINNER COURSE
Jamaican Co-instructor Luke Smith by Pete Bulanow
This was my curriculum for my beginner keyboard class in Jamaica. Again the goal wasn’t to teach “piano” it was to teach “keyboard” chart playing.
Prerequisite: identify middle C / names of notes
Warm Up:
- Scales: 3 octaves up and down, correct fingering, one new key signature per day
- Right hand first, then left, then both hands
Lesson:
- Chords with all inversions, I, IV, V, and relative minor, all chords on the keyboard, up and down, correct fingering
- Right hand first, then left hand, then both hands
- One key signature per day. Continue building on this for all keys in the circle of fifths.
- Introduce a new song in the key of the day. Show instructors’ preferred inversions for a chorus or a verse), let students develop their own voicing for the verse (or chorus).
Practice makes PERMANENT: Go slow and even, the speed will come.
ADVANCED COURSE
Keyboardist Keron Scott playing bass by Pete Bulanow
I had a few students who were interested in an advanced course, but were courteous enough to sit out of my beginner course. If we had an advanced keyboard course, this would be my suggested curriculum.
Prerequisite: All Major/minor chords, all inversions
Warm Up:
- Scales: 3 octaves up and down, two hands played evenly, all key signatures
- Hannon Exercises – add one new one per day
Lesson:
Idea Share (we can all learn something from each other)
- Pick a song or two or three
- Pick a tempo / groove (with a drum machine)
- Go around the room and share how you play/voice the tune
Intro to Classical Technique (fingering, pedaling, terminology)
I would love to hear feedback on this from any of the veteran or advanced students in Jamaica, or anyone else for that matter. Thanks!