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When & Where

Quick Facts

  • Availability Yes
  • Course Code W24CCLA05A
  • Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course

What you will learn

Have you always wanted to learn to play the piano? In this classic beginners course, taught in the digital piano classroom, you will learn basic piano technique, including 5-finger patterns and chords, simple pieces, as well as music reading, through individual and group tuition and playing in a fun and friendly environment.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • demonstrate fundamentals of good technique: good posture and hand position
  • play simple 5-finger exercises, simple melodies and chords
  • read, write and play simple pitch, rhythmic patterns
  • find and name all keys on the keyboard

Class format and activities

The classes will be held in the digital keyboard classroom, with one keyboard per student. Listening to tutor explanation and demonstration. Playing digital pianos with weighted keyboards, with and without headphones. Playing with and to others in the class. Playing individually to the tutor. Listening to others and group discussion. Aural and Theory exercises. You will need to follow and contribute to discussions in English. You will need to follow and contribute to discussions in English. Music Study can include the use of digital resources such as listening to recordings, watching videos online, using appropriate mobile applications and following Moodle -Morley's virtual learning environment- to enhance your learning inside and outside the classroom. Music study also offers a range of benefits including being an enjoyable way to enhance wellbeing. Music practice at Morley can also serve to enhance skills relevant for employment including developing creativity, developing high-concentration levels, building self-confidence, working to deadlines, being able to control nerves and working as part of a team.

Entry requirements

This course is suitable for absolute beginners. You will need access to a piano (acoustic or digital) outside class. Willingness to do short, regular practice sessions between classes: at least 10-15 minutes, at least 4 times a week.

What you need to know before you enrol

You should be careful when playing the piano to maintain good posture and take regular breaks to stretch and relax, to avoid overuse injuries. Achievement on your course will be measured by whether you meet the learning outcomes. At the start of the course you will have an opportunity to discuss these with your tutor and set your own personal targets, linked to the learning outcomes and future goals. Excellent attendance and punctuality is required from all students. This course requires study/completion of activities outside of class time.

What you need

Notebook, pencil and eraser, and manuscript paper for music notation. Text: Adult Piano Adventures All-in-One Book 1 [Faber]. Other materials to be supplied by the tutor. The College provides headphones for every student but you are encouraged to bring your own.

What you can do next

Piano 1A continues on to Piano 1B Morley offers Piano courses through all levels up to Advanced. You may also be interested in the series of ABRSM Music Theory and Aural Training courses.