may 15th, 2025

A Short and Sweet Guide to Piano Books for Beginner Pianinists of All Ages

Top book recommendations for new students starting Chicago piano lessons!

​🎼​ For Kids aged 3-6

Check out our Kidz Club Class

While this is not a book per say it's a program designed to get kids playing, learning and loving music. It is a music foundations class so it doesn't focus only on piano but teaches the fundamentals of music to prime kids for later music education and a lifetime of learning, playing, and loving music.

​🎼 For Kids Ages 7–14

​📘 Piano Adventures by Nancy and Randall Faber
A tried-and-true method that kids love. The Primer Level introduces reading, rhythm, and musical expression through colorful illustrations and well-paced songs. As students grow, the series continues to build their skills step by step.

🎵 For Tweens and Teens Ages 11–19

​📘 Piano Adventures Accelerated Series
Older students new to piano can jump into this faster-paced version of Piano Adventures. Still start with the Primer if you're brand new—then move confidently into Level 1 and beyond.

​🎹 For Adults

📘 Adult Piano Adventures by Faber
This all-in-one book is perfect for adult learners. It combines technique, theory, and engaging repertoire in a format that’s approachable and rewarding. No prior experience required.
🎶 Adult Piano Adventures: Popular Book 1
Once you’ve started with the main method book, this one adds familiar pop and jazz tunes to the mix—great for motivation and variety!
📘 Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course
Another solid choice for adult beginners. Clear instruction, well-sequenced lessons, and a straightforward style make it a favorite for those who want a more traditional approach.

🎻For Those Pursuing a Deeper Dive into Classical Music

📘 Béla Bartók – For Children, Vol. 1 & 2
Inspired by Eastern European folk tunes, these short, expressive pieces are full of character and nuance. Perfect for students ready to explore more sophisticated rhythms, harmonies, and phrasing.
🎼 First Lessons in Bach (Book 1 & 2)
A beautiful entry point into Baroque music. These short pieces by J.S. Bach help develop independence between the hands, as well as a deeper understanding of melody, harmony, and counterpoint.

​🎷 For Aspiring Jazz Pianists

​📘 The Real Book (Sixth Edition)
An essential resource for any jazz musician. It’s not a method book, but a collection of lead sheets for hundreds of jazz standards. Great for students who want to start exploring improvisation, chord voicings, and the language of jazz piano.

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Whatever your age or musical interests, there’s a piano book out there that will meet you where you are and help you grow. These books are all excellent companions for students beginning their lessons in Chicago—especially at studios like ours that prioritize fun, creativity, and musical expression.
🎶 Want help choosing the right book or getting started with lessons? Contact us—we’re here to help you fall in love with the piano!