Play Piano in a Flash with Scott “The Piano Guy” Houston
This collection includes 12 DVDs of piano-playing tips and techniques led by Scott Houston, the Emmy Award-winning host of the public television series The Piano Guy. Geared toward beginners (but with a wealth of insight for more experienced players), the series offers 22 hours of the “tips, cheap tricks, and professional secrets” Houston is famous for. Featuring overhead videography of hands on the keyboard, the simplified, easy-to-follow techniques are like having an instructor in the room while practicing basic chords, slides, pedal tones, roots and left-hand patterns. As in Houston’s television show, these lessons keep students engaged by building skills around well-known pop songs such as Mack the Knife, Moon River, Imagine, and Sweet Home Alabama, as well as Christmas carols and hymns. Some songs include printable sheet music and audio tracks for pianists to accompany.
Recently my daughter and I started taking piano lessons. We love it. I actually took lessons about ten years ago and I am thrilled that much of it came back. I definitely wasn’t starting from scratch. However, we all know it is easiest to learn new tasks when it is enjoyable and playing piano is a great deal more fun when you are able to actually play something. Even if it is just one song – but play it and feel a huge sense of accomplishment.
Now my daughter and I (she is 9) are learning to play piano Scott Houston’s way as well as learning the more traditional way. In the meantime – Silent Night is a frequent tune in our home and the timing with the holiday season is perfect.
This is definitely a set that will allow the person who practices to play recreationally in a short period of time. Another great gift for the holidays – not only fun but educational and entertaining!
You can find it at Hammacher Schlemmer for just $99.95 for a full 12 DVD set!
And if for some reason this is not a gift for you – they have so many other options for holiday gifts throughout their site, in virtually any category.
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