Le prime sensazioni al pianoforte sono per sempre? : Indagine sui metodi pianistici per principianti

The piano teaching methods used in Italy are characterised by paths based on diverse theoretical assumptions and practical indications. The first piano book, whatever its value might be, establishes the initial contact with the instrument, leaving an important impression and drawing the profile of the skills primarily developed. A deeper understanding of these texts in use among beginners can show what are the abilities and the learning strategies proposed by the methods and adopted by teachers. The aim of the research is to identify which are the methodological choices most representative in the Italian piano pedagogy over the past 50 years. The findings are based on the data collected from questionnaires administered to 200 pianists, aged between 20 and 60 which were asked, together with generic information, which was their first piano book, which aspects they remembered as most positive or negative and which aspects they consider to be most helpful. Data suggest a relevant preference of five beginning methods, which have been analysed according to a series of methodological and analytical criteria. The results indicate a wide methodological area, focused mainly on the initial relationship with the piano and on learning to read music. This study contributes to reflection on two methodological aspects: the development of new repertoires for beginners and the proposal of new methodologies able to respect the needs and the emotional world of piano beginners.