Playing Keyboard For Dummies

by Jerry Kovarsky

About the Book: Playing Keyboard for Dummies Key content coverage includes: An overview of the types of keyboards available today (personal/portables, digital pianos, synthesizers, organs, etc.) and how they differ from acoustic pianos Expert advice on choosing the right keyboard for your wants/needs (for yourself, for a child, to learn to play piano, to have fun, etc.); and how to shop and compare the various models A close look at the types of sounds an electronic keyboard offers and how to achieve them Information on understanding and using a wide range of common keyboard effects (such as reverb, chorus, etc.), as well as onboard drum rhythms and other accompaniment features Step-by-step instruction on how to connect and use keyboards anywhere using external speakers, amps, home stereos, computers, and tablets Guidance on how to use keyboard software and applications to get the most out of keyboard technology Content Introduction Part I: Getting Started with Keyboards Chapter 1: Living in a Keyboard World Chapter 2: So Many Keyboards, So Little Time Chapter 3: Choosing the Right Keyboard for You Chapter 4: Setting Up and Caring For Your Keyboard Part II: Dipping Your Toes Fingers into Music Basics Chapter 5: Musical Notation: Decoding the Musical Language Chapter 6: Developing Your Fingering and Basic Technique Chapter 7: Going Chord Crazy Part III: Using Common Keyboard Features Chapter 8: Selecting and Playing Sounds Chapter 9: Using Effects to Enhance Your Sound Chapter 10: Jamming with the Drummer: Playing Along to Rhythm Patterns Chapter 11: Join The Band! Adding Accompaniment Chapter 12: Exploring Arpeggiation Part IV: Moving into More-Advanced Keyboard Features Chapter 13: Laying Down Tracks: Recording Your Playing Chapter 14: Editing Sounds Chapter 15: Teacher Included: Using Onboard Learning Systems Chapter 16: Sitting In with the Stars: Playing Along with Recordings Chapter 17: The Computer Connection: Using Software to Enhance Your Music Making Part V

Genres: Music

364 pages, Paperback

First published October 31, 2013

Reviews

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Recently retired, I got a keyboard as a gift. Playing a keyboard is a little different from playing piano so I wanted something that focused on the difference between them. This book hit the mark. I wish I'd had it before I got a keyboard because one of the big pluses of this book is how to evaluate what you need and should buy. I plan on upgrading eventually and this helped me identify what I like and don't like about my current one and how to choose my next instrument. This is a great addition to the learning library of a new keyboard player.

[Tyler Replogle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a solid resource for anyone looking to dive into playing the piano or keyboard. I found the sections on playing by ear particularly enjoyable and helpful. The tips on learning and improving piano skills are practical and well-explained, making it a great guide for beginners and those looking to refine their technique. It’s a straightforward and approachable book, though I would’ve liked a bit more depth in certain areas. Overall, it’s a worthwhile read for anyone starting their keyboard journey!

[Sean S · Rating 3 out of 5]

As one of the few online books available in my public libraries' digital catalogue, I took a chance on this for piano content. There is some basic music theory here but most of this is a rush through notation and music structure, with more emphasis on keyboard features and functionality beyond piano instrument only. Good to know but not exactly what I was looking for.