The perfect starting point for a beginner piano player.
If you're looking for a fun and engaging way to get a child started on piano, the P Plate Piano books are sure to be a hit!
These bright and colourful books provide the perfect preparation for AMEB Preliminary Piano or Preliminary Piano for Leisure. They contain easy, fun, and accessible pieces that are designed to complement a teacher’s methods. The stunning artwork and fun activities are underpinned by informative text written by nationally recognised music educator, Elissa Milne.
Each book leads to an optional, non-graded assessment with AMEB, which is the perfect introduction to the exam environment.
Why would I do a P Plate Piano exam?
So many reasons! It's a great way to cap off the achievement of learning the pieces in the book. Working toward a tangible and set goal (such as an exam) can be a great motivator for many students. Completing the exam brings with it its own reward and, on top of that, every candidate receives a written report with feedback to support their ongoing learning journey. They are also presented with a certificate of completion right then and there in the exam room.
In the long run, exams are a fantastic way to build performance and anxiety-combatting skills. P Plate Piano exams are the perfect entry experience and help to set up children with a positive and fun experience in what can be a nerve-wracking environment.
What do I prepare for a P Plate Piano exam?
An exam includes the performance of three works from the book being studied. These can be selected at the candidate’s and teacher’s discretion and you're free to choose any three pieces that you enjoy or support your learning needs. There are no separate Section III or technical work components in a P Plate Piano exam. You'll find these exam requirements in the preface of each P Plate Piano book.
What's the difference between these and normal AMEB exams?
A P Plate Piano exam isn't a qualification but it is a fantastic starting point for anyone considering doing future exams, or even just wanting the chance to show off all the work they've been doing. These exams are not graded so there's no pressure - it's simply a chance to enjoy playing the pieces! For parents, this is a rare opportunity to be able to sit in on the exam itself. Young students are permitted to invite a small audience to hear their exam - it's not every day you get to showcase the hard work you've been doing. And, if you finish your Book 3 exam, you'll receive your official P Plate licence!
What else can I expect to find in the books?
Each book contains a series of carefully sequenced and pedagogically informed pieces that allow students to progress steadily. These are crafted from single note melodies through to more complex works. Teachers can support students with duet playing, or even involve fellow students. Each book fosters creative interaction and imagination across a variety of styles, from classical to contemporary.
How can I find out more?
Hear from Elissa about what P Plate Piano is designed for and how you can integrate these great resources into your teaching (below). You can also visit our dedicated P Plate Piano website to find out more.
I have more questions.
That's great! We'd love to help with those. Please feel free to browse the other great sources of information on our website or get in touch to find out more.
