The lang lang piano method: level 2

A good book for kids.

For pupils who’ve acquired a basic skill set using Level 1, this Level 2 book provides a really good mix of gently progressing technique and repertoire. The pieces are full of character and interest, with dynamics, staccato & legato, simple chords, the beginnings of a sense of key, and plenty of approachable ‘thumb-under/finger over’ work. There’s lots of musical stimulus with every new bit of technique. Towards the end of the book black keys are introduced, and pupils particularly enjoy the effect of alternating major and minor thirds in some of the pieces. As with the previous level, the illustrations and layout are attractive – favourite picture so far is the dancing tree frogs. There are ‘Take a break’ and Theory fill in pages, plus downloadable audio tracks for pupils to listen to between lessons. (But experience has taught me to check that pupils/parents can open and use these tracks.) One thing I’ve noticed is that the left hand has an important role throughout the book. If a piece needs separate hands at first, we usually work on it as a ‘duet’, playing one hand each, then swapping round. I love it when pupils come back saying, “I can play it as a duet all by myself now!” (Duets for yourself - what a great concept.) I find this a well-paced book for 8-11 year olds, but would happily use it with some adult pupils too.

My kids LOVE this series! It's bright and colourful whilst certainly being pedagogically sound. It introduces concepts gradually and the pieces at the end of each double-page mean there's always something to be working towards. The Youtube links make the audio easy to access (you can download too apparently). If you take Lang Lang out of the frame and treat it like any other piano tutor it's still a good method which I guess is the true test.

My daughter enjoys using the book. Easy to follow.

Brought it for my daughter, she is loving it.