Favorite Melodies the World over: Level 1 (Wp 37 Level 1)

This book has many classic pieces of music that have been broken down for easier playing for a beginner. This book is not for the complete beginner (i.e someone who has never touched a piano before) and it isn't an instructional book so the person has to have some rudimentary knowledge of the piano; reading notes and playing with both hands. That said, this book is very basic and it wouldn't be difficult for someone who has just come to the level of playing with both hands to pick it up. However, I think this book could still be entertaining even for someone with a little more knowledge of the piano. The book is divided up into five different sections: Sing Along Favorites, Christmas Carols, Hymns, Patriotic Songs, and Classics. It does not seem to have a clear progression in difficulty. Many of the earlier songs are more difficult than the later songs, until you get to the classics which up the level of difficulty quite a bit in comparison to the earlier songs. All in all, I have really enjoyed this book. Being fairly new to piano myself, I found it refreshing to actually play real songs instead of just the exercises out of other instructional books.

Easy to intermediate selections. Love this old standby music.

Melody is usually in the right hand, and simple chords in the left. Purchased for an adult student with special needs who struggles when both hands are moving at the same time, so it's perfect. Would be great for any beginner.

Using the Bastien book to learn piano. This book matches perfectly with tunes that are in coordination with what I know. So it's fun to learn songs that are within my capabilities.

A really fun mix of all kinds of classics. Great for both kids and adults that are learning to play. I sought this one out because it was a book that I remembered from my childhood. It's a keeper!

For some reason I started with Level 2. Level 1 has an equally appealing selection of music. Both books are great for an older beginner. Lots to challenge me here.

I really like this book. I am using the Faber's books for piano lessons and this book gives me a good deal of extra music that I can do and stretch my limits. The Faber books don't start music signatures until the end of the first book and uses all accidental flats and sharps until then. This book has the music signatures and there is a really good variety of music.

Recommended by piano teacher for use during summer break.