A Dozen a Day: Your Comprehensive Preparatory Guide
Introduction
For many aspiring musicians, practicing the piano is both a passion and a necessity. Whether you’re preparing for performance exams, auditions, or simply want to improve your skills, having the right resources is crucial. One of the most well-regarded resources in this regard is “A Dozen a Day,” a piano technique and preparation book that has helped countless students enhance their playing. This blog post will explore the contents of “A Dozen a Day,” its importance in piano education, how to effectively use it, and tips for maximizing your practice time.
What is “A Dozen a Day”?
“A Dozen a Day” is a series of instructional books created by Edna-Mae Burnam, designed to provide students with a structured approach to develop their skills. The series is divided into levels, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced, making it accessible for pianists of all ages and skill levels. It consists of short exercises and pieces that focus on different aspects of piano playing, such as technique, sight-reading, and musicality.
The Structure of “A Dozen a Day”
Levels: The series is designed for various skill levels, allowing students to progress at their own pace. Level A is for beginners, while Levels B, C, and D cater to intermediate and advanced players.
Daily Exercises: Each volume contains a collection of exercises categorized by specific technical skills. The idea is to practice a “dozen” (12) exercises each day, hence the title.
Variety of Techniques: Exercises cover an array of techniques, from finger dexterity and scales to dynamics and articulation, ensuring a well-rounded musical development.
Benefits of Using “A Dozen a Day”
1. Structured Practice Routine
Having a systematic approach to practice is essential for any musician. “A Dozen a Day” provides a clear outline of exercises, making it easier to organize your practice sessions. By focusing on a dozen exercises each day, students can develop consistency and discipline while maximizing their practice time.
2. Focus on Essential Techniques
Each exercise is thoughtfully crafted to address a specific technical skill. This targeted approach allows students to build a strong foundational skill set, which is critical for advancing to more complex pieces.
3. Incremental Progression
The series is designed to allow gradual progression. As students move through the levels, they encounter increasingly challenging exercises that help them build confidence and competence.
4. Enhancement of Musicality
By incorporating varied musical elements in the exercises, “A Dozen a Day” encourages students not only to focus on technique but also to express themselves musically. Techniques such as dynamics and phrasing are emphasized through practical application.
5. Sight-Reading Skills
The exercises are structured to enhance sight-reading abilities, which are crucial for any pianist. By regularly practicing new pieces, students gain exposure to different musical styles and notations, improving their overall musicianship.
How to Effectively Use “A Dozen a Day”
1. Set Clear Goals
Before diving into the exercises, it’s important to set specific and achievable goals for your practice sessions. Whether it’s improving your finger speed or mastering a particular piece, having a clear aim will keep your practice focused and productive.
2. Develop a Routine
Consistency is key in music practice. Consider dedicating 15-30 minutes each day to work through your dozen exercises. Establishing a regular schedule will help reinforce your skills and make your progress more noticeable.
3. Use a Metronome
Timing is an essential aspect of playing music. Incorporating a metronome into your practice will help you maintain a steady tempo and gradually increase your speed. Start at a comfortable pace and work your way up as you become more confident.
4. Record Yourself
Listening to recordings of your practice sessions can provide valuable insights into areas where you need improvement. It’s an effective way to assess your progress, musicality, and technique over time.
5. Incorporate Other Resources
While “A Dozen a Day” is an excellent resource, supplementing your practice with other materials can enhance your musical education. Consider adding appropriate repertoire, ear training exercises, or music theory study to your regime.
6. Ask for Feedback
Working with a qualified piano teacher can provide you with guided instruction and constructive feedback. Whether online or in-person, having an expert listen to you can help identify areas for improvement that you might overlook.
7. Celebrate Milestones
It’s important to recognize and celebrate progress in your piano journey. Whether completing a level or mastering a particularly challenging exercise, take the time to reward yourself for your hard work.
Conclusion
“A Dozen a Day” serves as an invaluable tool for pianists of all skill levels, helping to cultivate essential techniques and foster a love for music. By utilizing this resource effectively and incorporating it into a well-structured practice routine, you can significantly enhance your piano playing capabilities.
As you delve into this preparatory book, remember that progress in music, as in any art form, takes time and dedication. Stay patient, be consistent, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of becoming a skilled pianist.
Additional Resources for Piano Students
If you are looking to further enhance your piano skills and support your practice with additional methods alongside “A Dozen a Day,” here are several resources worth exploring:
1. Piano Method Books
Consider classic methods like “Bastien Piano Basics,” “Piano Adventures” by Faber, or “Alfred’s Basic Piano Library” to diversify your learning.
2. Online Platforms
Websites like Simply Piano, Flowkey, and Piano Marvel offer interactive lessons and a wide range of songs to practice.
3. YouTube Tutorials
There are countless YouTube channels dedicated to piano tutorials. Search for specific techniques or songs you’re interested in learning from experienced instructors.
4. Mobile Apps
Apps like Smart Pianist and Synthesia can make practicing more engaging by allowing you to play along with a digital accompaniment.
5. Piano Competitions & Recitals
Participating in competitions or casual recitals can provide motivation for progress and offer opportunities to perform in front of an audience.
Ultimately, your journey in learning the piano should be both challenging and enjoyable. “A Dozen a Day” is a cornerstone tool in that process, and with commitment and proper use, it can facilitate significant growth as a pianist. Happy practicing!