Have you always wanted to play piano? This revised edition of the popular Piano for Dummies makes it easier and more fun than ever. If you don't know how to read music, this book explains in friendly, uncomplicated language all the basics of music theory and applies it to playing the piano. And if you've been playing piano for a while – or took piano lessons when you were a child but haven't played since – you can pick up some valuable tips to improve your playing or use the book as a refresher course.

This new edition features fresh and updated practice lessons, teaching techniques, and musical examples, as well as a new audio CD with examples for all pieces presented in the book. You get expert information on left- and right-hand piano techniques; playing scales, melodies, harmonies, and chords; and practicing to improve your technique.

• Everything you need to start playing piano today
• Plenty of popular musical pieces and songs, with companion audio CD to play along with
• Instruction in playing various musical styles, from classical and rock to blues and country
• Blake Neely is an Emmy-nominated composer and accomplished pianist who has composed numerous TV and movie scores

If you've always wanted to tickle the ivories like a pro, Piano For Dummies, 2nd Edition is your ideal resource!

Note: CD-ROM/DVD and other supplementary materials are not included as part of eBook file.

The information is short and to the point - stuff, no fluff. The information made sense. I was playing so much better in just the first day of reading it.

Stick with it and read it over and over. It sinks in and makes sense - stay with it.

Most of the other books teach very little except simple popular ditties. This book actually had -- yes -- scales and other exercises for both the left and right hands, with fingering techniques simply applied, but fully explained.

And for those who want some tunes, there are (in addition to the standard ditties) actually some worthwhile classical adaptions, such as some of the best-known themes from the Bach cantatas.

I was quite impressed with how much basic and even intermediate material was included in the book, and explained with clarity and simplicity.

Since I read music already, I was able to skip many of the first chapters and get right into the practice and technique material, so I can't comment on how clear the music-reading chapters would be for a total beginner. However, I expect that if they are as good as the rest of the material, they should be fine for that purpose as well.

My one problem with it is the way you're presented with practice material. It's never specified how long or often you should practice something before moving on. Just be patient and ONLY MOVE ON ONCE YOU'RE COMFORTABLE WITH A PIECE. Do that and this minor problem won't affect you at all.

I really like the play along cd. It does help alot. Also, the humorous way in which you're presented with all of the material this book contains will have you learning great amounts of theory and technique without even realizing it. This book is great as a reference book as well.

So, although it's challenging (sight-reading in particular), you'll soon learn that with a little consistence and assiduity you'll be on your way to "tickling the ivories with the best of 'em"!