P Plate Piano FAQs

What is P Plate Piano?

P Plate Piano is a series of three books aimed at pre-preliminary piano students. Each book has a series of pieces graded to encompass all the technical and musical difficulties that a student needs to embrace prior to beginning the AMEB Preliminary Grade.

Who complied the books?

The pieces have been selected (and in a few instances written) by one of Australia’s top pedagogical specialists for young pianists, Elissa Milne.

Are the books for complete beginners?

The books are not for complete beginners. It is expected students would have completed their first tutor or method book and would have been learning piano for 6 – 18 months (depending on their dedication and ability) before starting P Plate Piano.

Is it a method book or a tutor?

No this is not a method book or a tutor. Each book comprises approximately 18 pieces and they are carefully graded through the three levels to achieve preliminary standard at the end of the experience.

Can I use them on their own?

The books can be used on their own but they are designed to be used in conjunction with other tutors and method books giving an all round musical experience.

What will my student achieve by completing all three books?

By completing the series of books students will be able to begin Preliminary Piano with confidence having the musical and technical difficulties comfortably within their grasp.

Is it just a series of musical pieces?

In addition to repertoire the books contain activities to develop general musicianship and general knowledge as well as useful pointers to develop keyboard skills. Each piece has extra information or fun activities to do.

Where is the music from?

The music selected comes from a wide range of sources and will be exceptionally appealing to students. Each piece has colour illustrations, is visually enticing and is fun to play.

Can a student be assessed?

Students using the books can sit an AMEB assessment. The assessment will be a very gentle introduction for young students into the AMEB examination experience. There will be an assessment option available at the end of each Level.

What does the assessment consist of?

To sit an assessment the student will select and perform three pieces from the Level they are studying. There are no prerequisites, no additional requirements and no Section III tests (i.e. sight reading, aural or general knowledge).

Can a candidate fail the assessment?

The assessment will not be graded and is intended to be a positive first interaction between parents and students and the AMEB examination system. The student will receive a certificate of participation and also a written report with comments from the AMEB examiner. On completing Level 3 students will receive a Licence indicating they are now ready to begin formal examinations with the AMEB.

This is a new venture for the AMEB and one we are very excited about. The books will be illustrated and in full colour – another first for the AMEB. The concept and the repertoire and the assessment have all been carefully considered and put together to make getting to Preliminary Grade a fun and worthwhile experience.

P Plate Piano publications will be available for purchase in November 2009.

P Plate Piano assessments will be available in 2010.