The Piano Workbook: A Complete Course in Technique and Performance, w/CD.(Book review)

The Piano Workbook: A Complete Course in Technique and Performance, w/CD, by Carl Humphries. Hal Leonard Corporation (www.musicdispatch.com; (800) 637-2852), 2007. 280 pp. $29.95.

The Piano Workbook by Carl Humphries was written in response to his tutor, the Piano Handbook. Geared toward the adult learner, this book claims to include the "nuts'n'bolts" for those who want the "whole experience" of learning the piano.

The book itself is quite attractive. It is printed on glossy paper and spiral bound--something you might find in a coffee table book. The pages of my particular copy were stuck together. I suggest checking your pages before writing in the book.

As a teacher specializing in adult students, I was baffled by the teaching approach. This is not a "method book"--instead there are units that are meant to enlighten the reader in everything from developing technique to music theory. There is even a wonderful section about learning to use jazz-style scales and modes.

The book is not for those easily discouraged; it is text heavy and uses a small font. Intermingled on the pages are carefully chosen examples from both standard repertoire and "jazz/pop" arrangements, with a companion recording played beautifully by Humpheries.