(Willis). A time-tested bestseller known worldwide, John Thompson's Modern Course for Piano is the legendary course that's helped generations of students master the basics with confidence and joy. Perfect for beginners of any age who have completed Teaching Little Fingers to Play , this First Grade book builds a complete musical foundation, introducing essentail five-finger position pieces (with a few one-finger extensions) to teach students how to think and feel musically. This classic course emphasizes melody, rhythm, harmony, and finger patterns, setting students up as stronger sight-readers and interpreters while keeping each lesson engaging and clear. With an introduction to essential techniques like finger legato and wrist staccato, beginners gain the expressive touch needed to bring music to life. When students finish this book, they'll be ready and excited to continue their musical journey into Grade 2!