Diller-Quaile Method

The Diller-Quaile method is an oldie-but-goodie that is particularly appropriate for the precocious child and the teacher who gives phrasing and musicality top priority. "Off We Go! First Book of Poetry Pieces for Piano" may serve as the first book for a beginning student as it presents pieces at the early elementary to late elementary levels. �The pieces start off in middle C position but the book soon moves the student through different hand positions, offering a keyboard chart displaying the hand position at the top of every page. In order to emphasize phrasing, in addition to the inclusion of slurs, one phrase is presented per line. A few harmony notes are included in a handful of pieces; however the book generally consists of charming, child-focused one line phrases. American and European folk tunes are well represented. Tunes are written in the keys of C, G, D, F Major. Towards the end of the book, pieces using eighth notes, dotted quarters and 6/8 meter are presented.