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Piano and Keyboard - Beginner

Course Description

This course is suitable for absolute beginners and is taught using acoustic pianos and electronic keyboards. You will learn basic piano techniques, including 5 finger patterns and chords. You will learn simple pieces and develop music reading. In order to gain the most out of the course we recommend 15 minutes of practice at least four times a week. You will also be learning how to maintain good posture and how this helps to develop your playing and performance.

Location: Camden

Course Requirements

The course is for beginners. However, it will help your development to have access to a piano (acoustic or digital) outside of class. You will also be expected to complete an Individual Learning Plan to help support your progress.

Course Content

This course is a fun and inclusive introduction to learning to play piano and keyboards. It will include - knowing the layout of the keyboard, learning the fundamentals of good technique such as posture and hand position, playing simple 5 finger exercises, melodies and chords, reading and writing simple pitch, rhythm and time signatures, listening to yourself and others, shifting hand position between and within phrases, playing simple melodies and accompaniments with some independence and co-ordination of hands and playing in front of others with confidence. Please note - although you will be introduced to all the above over a single term (10-weeks), the course is developmental over the whole year. If you sign up for the full three terms (courses A, B and C) at the start of the academic year e.g. August / September you will be entitled to the early bird discount.

Teaching and Learning Methods

You will learn through, practical activities, group exercises and peer assessment, listening and analysis, demonstration and discussion, use of supporting online materials, individual practice, use of ILT and continuous assessment. There is no homework associated with the sessions but please do discuss extension activities with your tutor.

Independent Learning

You will be expected to work independently to develop your practical keyboard skills. The focus should be on instrumental practice but may also include gaining confidence with music theory.

Assessment

You will be continually assessed through your practical activities and will receive feedback in a variety of ways such as peer assessment, verbal and written feedback from your teacher. This is a non-accredited course but a certificate of completion can be provided by the College on request.

Qualification you will achieve

This is a non-accredited course but a certificate of completion can be provided by the College on request.

Next Steps and Progression

Once you have completed the course, you may choose to enrol on a further term in this subject or another subject. Advice and Guidance for all further study is available from the Curriculum Manager by request.

Additional Information

For more information, please contact the Learner Services Team via Live Chat or on 020 7255 4700 or email LearnerServices@wmcollege.ac.uk.

Additional Learning Support

Teachers are supported to ensure their materials are inclusive to meet all learners needs. Provision of assistive equipment is available and access support can be provided through reasonable adjustments, subject to an assessment by the ALS team and/or the Disability Officer. Digital Learning support is available in the Learning Centre at our Camden site. Careers advice and guidance is also available to all learners.

Additional Costs

WM College is able to provide financial support with course fees and you may be eligible based on prior qualifications, if you are on a low income or on benefits. For more information and to find out if you are eligible, go to the Fees & Finance page on our website or contact the Learner Services team via Live Chat or on 020 7255 4700.
CAMDEN
44 Crowndale Road
NW1 1TR
Tel: 020 7255 4700
Email: learnerservices@wmcollege.ac.uk
KENTISH TOWN
7 Leighton Place
NW5 2QL
Tel: 020 7241 8572
Email: learnerservices@wmcollege.ac.uk