Hello everyone,

Sorry if this is a tiresome question for you regulars, but I browsed about 10 pages deep and didn't find much on this topic.

I'd like to take a crack at starting my 6 year old son on piano by giving him lessons myself. I'm an advanced pianist but have no teaching experience (though hopefully it's in my blood as my father is a retired public school general music teacher

I'm a regular lurker and value the opinions here - is there a general consensus on an effective instruction method and coursebook/CD I can purchase?

Appreciate any advice!
Dave

There's a general consensus that laying a proper foundation is so very important that you should seek out the best possible teacher you can find to do so, then sit in on lessons, supervise daily practice, and in general, help your student properly structure their daily practice effort.

I totally appreciate that. Unfortunately, we are not in a position right now to add that expense.

Has the child expressed interest in lessons? If not, why not start putting money aside for when he's 7. I find that most boys are more ready at 7 or 8 anyway. That way, you'd have the money to pay for a good teacher.

And no, there is no consensus on the best materials because the materials aren't as important as the teacher using them.

Good idea. I had thought 6 was an ideal age (it's when I started) but perhaps I'll wait a year, and I expect my income situation will be better. Thanks!

Check out "Pianimals". It is designed to be taught by a parent or a piano instructor. Of course, if your finances improve, change over to a piano teacher when you can. Until then, follow the steps carefully, check in with the forums, ask questions, and you should be able to get a start.

The method book is really just a layout for introducing musical concepts. There are several and for the most part they all get you to the same place (most popular being Faber Piano Adventures, Alfred Basic Piano methods, Bastien and a few others). A good technical foundation is a whole other ball park which needs to be researched and taught very carefully. This is why the previous posters are recommending a good professional teacher for your son. It's so much more than "pretend there is a ball under your hand and sit tall".. So if you are going to teach him I just recommend you do a bit of research.

I am absolutely certain that a good professional teacher can, and does make a big difference for a beginner.

However, the the key there is 'good professional'. I know for a fact (I know them) that the 3 teachers in our area are just what the OP describes, a piano player who wants to help young kids get a start. They are piano players who decided to make some extra money teaching new students. They have not had any additional training or anything, just a desire to help new students. They just choose a method or two and wade in.

In my opinion they have had some successes but I wonder if someone like the OP could do just as well.

Of course, as time goes by and they gain experience they will improve.

Interesting anyway and I'm sure no expert. In the same circumstances as the OP I might do it too.