The lang lang piano method: level 4

This book follows consistently from the others in the series, and has the look and feel of a book that is for the older primary-aged pupil. It has eye-catching graphics and each page isn’t overburdened with too much detail. It moves at a good pace with a clear sense of progression, and with a nice balance of different musical styles and techniques. There is a good amount of music theory incorporated as you work through each piece too. You really get a sense that these books aim to develop the whole musician with the integrated music theory and listening exercises rather than a single-minded focus on piano technique. I find that the interactive quizzes and listening pages (where the pupil is invited to listen to and reflect on Lang Lang’s performance of a well-known piece of music) provide a change of pace for pupils who welcome a break and a chance to refocus after working through their pieces or scales. The front cover mentions ‘audio included’, which may lead some people to think the book includes a CD whereas you’ll actually find all the music online (which is explained in the intro page). Would recommend.

思っていたより難易度が低かったが、内容はとても良いと思いました。

There are a couple of ripped pages. The pages look like they were photo-copied in black and white and stapled together. Very dissatisfied with this purchase.

Great book!

This is the fourth book in the Lang Lang Piano Method. As it is aimed at slightly older children than the first three books, it is now in portrait format and black and white throughout (rather than colour). However, as with the previous books, the approach is thorough and imaginative. The layout is clear and uncluttered and new technical skills are introduced gradually. Theory and scales are also covered. The pieces are slightly longer, in a variety of styles, including well-known classical pieces. As a musician myself I particularly liked the emphasis on listening and playing beautifully, with expression (often lacking in beginners!). This is helped by the downloadable audio tracks, with Lang Lang himself playing the Concert Pieces. Ideally I would like to see a little bit more encouragement of creativity/improvisation but otherwise there is much to recommend in this new addition to the series.