What is Piano Safari?
Piano Safari is a piano method that incorporates the best elements of a range of techniques for teaching children and older students.
Katherine Fisher and Dr. Julie Knerr combined decades of experience and a variety of teaching and pedagogical research into a detailed, effective method.
Piano Safari contains multiple levels of repertoire and theory books along with sight reading cards and other supplements.
We also provide piano teachers with a robust library of guides and resources.
How does it work?
Compared to other methods, Piano Safari progresses deliberately in terms of reading yet quickly in terms of playing. This builds foundational skills while developing a strong ear and technique in the student.
Repertoire Book 1 is composed of 6 sections (Introductory Unit and Units 1-5). Book 1 is 133 pages. The average student takes 2-3 months to complete each unit. Most piano students take a full year (at minimum the school year) to complete Level 1.
By design, certain parts of Piano Safari work well with other teaching methods, specifically the Rote Pieces. The Piano Safari Pattern Pieces books, with their companion audio tracks, were designed for just this purpose. They contain the Rote Pieces from Piano Safari Repertoire Books 1 and 2.
Piano Safari also works with group classes. We encourage teachers study our resources and materials, and adapt our pedagogical ideas for their specific group of children.
Please explore Piano Safari reviews from various publications along with testimonials from satisfied Piano Safari practitioners.
Have a specific question? We may have an answer for you on our Piano Safari frequently asked questions page.
Getting started
Our Piano Safari Method products page will tell you what goes into the program and which products are appropriate.
Children under 10 generally start with Piano Safari Level 1 materials, such as the Level 1 Pack.
Students 10 and up, including teens and adults, will start with the Piano Safari for the Older Student Level 1 Pack.
Want to take a look inside the program? Browse sample pages from the core Piano Safari Method here.
If you are a teacher, please subscribe to our email list to stay in the loop with our blog and updates.
We also offer a range of products beyond our core Method, including:
- Ensemble pieces
- Guest composer books
- Supplements including cards and rote pieces
- Holiday music and other sheet music
Thank you for your interest in Piano Safari!
