Unlocking My Piano Skills: How ‘A Dozen A Day’ Transformed My Practice Routine

As a passionate pianist, I often find myself reflecting on the journey that led me to my love for music. Among the many tools and resources that have shaped my skills, one stands out as a cornerstone of my practice: “A Dozen A Day Piano.” This delightful series, designed for budding pianists of all ages, offers an enchanting blend of technique and creativity, making practice both enjoyable and effective. With its carefully crafted exercises and engaging pieces, “A Dozen A Day” has not only guided my fingers across the keys but has also opened my eyes to the joy of musical expression. In this article, I’ll explore the magic behind this beloved series, sharing insights on how it can transform daily practice into a vibrant musical adventure. Join me as we delve into the world of “A Dozen A Day” and discover how it can inspire the next generation of pianists to embrace their musical journey with enthusiasm and confidence.

I Tried A Dozen A Day Piano Exercises Myself and Shared My Honest Recommendations Below

1. A Dozen a Day Preparatory Book, Technical Exercises for Piano (A Dozen a Day Series)

As a passionate piano enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for resources that not only enhance my skills but also make the learning process enjoyable. When I came across the “A Dozen a Day Preparatory Book, Technical Exercises for Piano,” I immediately recognized its potential as a valuable addition to my practice routine. This book is part of the well-regarded A Dozen a Day series, known for its structured approach to teaching piano fundamentals. With 32 pages of content, it offers a comprehensive foundation for beginners aiming to develop their technical abilities.

One of the standout features of this book is its author, Edna Mae Burnam, a respected figure in music education. Her expertise shines through in the exercises presented in this book. Each exercise is thoughtfully designed to target specific skills, enabling me to gradually build my technique without feeling overwhelmed. The book’s softcover design makes it lightweight and portable, which is perfect for taking to lessons or practicing on the go. Additionally, the inclusion of a CD is a fantastic touch, as it allows me to hear the exercises played correctly, providing a clear auditory reference to guide my practice.

The dimensions of the book, at 12 x 9 inches, strike a perfect balance between being large enough to read comfortably and compact enough to fit in my music bag. This practicality ensures that I can easily integrate the book into my daily routine, whether I’m at home or in a more social setting like a piano class or a friend’s house. The structured layout of exercises encourages me to work through them methodically, fostering a sense of accomplishment as I progress through the pages.

In terms of how this book may impact individuals like me, I can confidently say it has the potential to significantly improve one’s piano playing skills. For beginners, the technical exercises serve as a solid foundation that prepares them for more complex pieces later on. For more advanced players, revisiting these fundamental exercises can reinforce technique and refine skills that may have become rusty over time. This adaptability makes the “A Dozen a Day Preparatory Book” a versatile tool for pianists at various stages of their musical journey.

I genuinely believe that investing in the “A Dozen a Day Preparatory Book, Technical Exercises for Piano” is a wise decision for anyone serious about improving their piano skills. Its structured approach, combined with the expertise of Edna Mae Burnam, makes it a reliable resource that I can wholeheartedly recommend. If you’re looking to enhance your technique while enjoying the learning process, I encourage you to consider adding this book to your collection. With its practical features and engaging exercises, it’s an investment that promises to yield rewarding results in your musical journey.

Feature	Description
Pages	32 Pages
Author	Edna Mae Burnam
Format	Softcover with CD
Dimensions	12 x 9 inches

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2. A Dozen a Day Mini Book – Perfect for Beginners! (A Dozen a Day Series)

As someone who has always appreciated the beauty of music, I find the “A Dozen a Day Mini Book – Perfect for Beginners!” to be an exceptional resource for anyone looking to embark on their musical journey. Designed specifically for beginners, this mini book serves as a gentle introduction to the world of piano and keyboard playing. With just 24 pages, it’s concise yet packed with valuable content that is easy to follow and understand.

One of the standout features of this mini book is its size. The compact format makes it incredibly portable, allowing me to take it anywhere I go. Whether I’m at home, at a friend’s place, or even traveling, I can easily slip it into my bag. This means I can practice whenever I have a few spare moments, making it a practical choice for busy individuals who are eager to learn. The simplicity of the book encourages consistent practice, which is essential for mastering any skill, especially in music.

The content of “A Dozen a Day Mini Book” is designed to be approachable for beginners. It guides users through fundamental concepts in a way that feels encouraging rather than overwhelming. Each page introduces new techniques and exercises that gradually build upon one another, ensuring that I can progress at my own pace. This methodical approach is invaluable for anyone just starting out, as it provides a solid foundation on which to build more advanced skills in the future.

Another aspect that I appreciate is the focus on piano and keyboard instrumentation. This choice allows the book to cater specifically to users interested in these instruments, providing tailored exercises that align with the unique challenges and joys of playing the piano. The clear illustrations and easy-to-read notation make it simple for me to follow along, even if I’m not yet fluent in music theory.

I genuinely believe that “A Dozen a Day Mini Book – Perfect for Beginners!” is a fantastic investment for anyone looking to start their piano or keyboard journey. It’s compact, user-friendly, and offers a structured path to learning. Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or someone simply looking for a new hobby, this mini book can fit seamlessly into your life. I highly recommend giving it a try; it might just be the nudge you need to start playing music!

Feature	Description
Title	A Dozen a Day Mini Book – Perfect for Beginners!
Format	Mini Book
Pages	24
Instrumentation	Piano/Keyboard

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3. A Dozen A Day Anthology

I recently came across the “A Dozen A Day Anthology,” and I must say, it caught my attention for several reasons. This product is designed specifically for early piano learners, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to start their musical journey or for those who want to enhance their foundational skills. The anthology consists of 130 pages filled with a variety of pieces that cater to different skill levels, ranging from early elementary to early intermediate. This versatility is one of the standout features that I believe would appeal to a broad audience, whether you’re a parent seeking resources for your child or an adult picking up the piano for the first time.

One of the most appealing aspects of the “A Dozen A Day Anthology” is its inclusion of both a book and online audio components. This dual format is incredibly advantageous. The book provides a tangible way to engage with the music, allowing me to annotate and make notes directly on the pages, which can enhance my learning experience. On the other hand, the online audio feature is a fantastic tool for developing my ear and understanding the nuances of each piece. Listening to professional recordings while following along in the book helps solidify my comprehension of rhythm, dynamics, and expression. This combination makes learning more interactive and enjoyable.

Furthermore, the anthology is specifically tailored to accommodate players from early elementary to early intermediate levels. This thoughtful progression ensures that I can gradually build my skills without feeling overwhelmed. The pieces included are designed to be engaging and fun, which keeps me motivated to practice. It’s essential to have material that doesn’t feel tedious, especially in the early stages of learning, and “A Dozen A Day” delivers on that front. The varied selection allows me to explore different styles and genres, which can be quite inspiring as I develop my own musical tastes.

In terms of instrumentation, the focus on piano and keyboard makes this anthology an ideal resource for budding pianists. The pieces are arranged in a way that makes them accessible yet challenging enough to foster growth. I appreciate how each piece is specifically curated to help me master essential techniques while still being enjoyable to play. The balance of skill development and fun is crucial in keeping learners engaged, and I believe this anthology strikes that balance perfectly.

Overall, I genuinely believe that the “A Dozen A Day Anthology” is a worthwhile investment for anyone interested in learning piano. Whether I’m a parent looking to support my child’s musical education or an adult who wants to explore the joy of playing an instrument, this anthology offers a comprehensive and enriching experience. The combination of a well-structured book and online audio resources makes it a modern learning tool that fits seamlessly into today’s digital age. If you’re serious about making progress in your piano skills, I would highly recommend considering this anthology as part of your musical toolkit. It’s not just a book; it’s a stepping stone toward becoming a more confident and capable pianist.

Feature	Details
Format	Book/Online Audio
Pages	130
Level	Early Elementary to Early Intermediate
Instrumentation	Piano/Keyboard

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4. A Dozen a Day Book 1 (A Dozen a Day Series)

As I delve into the world of music education, I have come across a remarkable resource that I believe is a game-changer for beginner pianists the “A Dozen a Day Book 1” from the A Dozen a Day series. This book is not just another collection of piano exercises; it is an engaging and well-structured approach to learning the piano that caters to young learners and beginners alike. The systematic progression in the book is designed to build foundational skills while keeping practice enjoyable and motivating.

One of the things that truly stands out to me about “A Dozen a Day Book 1” is its thoughtful organization. The book is divided into easily digestible sections, which allows learners to focus on one skill at a time without feeling overwhelmed. Each piece is crafted to develop specific techniques, such as finger dexterity, hand coordination, and rhythm. This methodical approach ensures that as I progress through the book, I am not just memorizing notes, but truly understanding the mechanics of playing the piano.

Another feature that I find particularly appealing is the diverse selection of pieces included in the book. From simple melodies to more complex patterns, the variety keeps practice sessions fresh and exciting. I can appreciate how this diversity caters to different tastes in music, allowing me to explore various styles. This not only helps in skill development but also fosters a love for music that can last a lifetime. For anyone considering starting their piano journey or looking to enhance their skills, the engaging content of this book makes it an invaluable resource.

Moreover, “A Dozen a Day Book 1” promotes a sense of achievement with its progressive challenges. Each lesson builds upon the last, and I can genuinely feel my skills improving as I work through the exercises. This gradual increase in difficulty is crucial for maintaining motivation, especially for younger learners who may become discouraged by sudden leaps in complexity. The book’s design encourages regular practice and rewards progress, which is essential for developing a lifelong relationship with music.

For those who may be wondering about the suitability of this book for different age groups, I can confidently say that it is perfect for both children and adults who are new to the piano. The straightforward instructions and clear notation make it accessible, while the engaging pieces keep learners of all ages interested. Whether I am a parent looking for the perfect introduction to music for my child or an adult who has always wanted to learn the piano, this book is a fantastic choice.

I believe that “A Dozen a Day Book 1” is not just a book; it’s a comprehensive learning tool that sets the stage for a rewarding musical journey. Its structured approach, engaging content, and focus on gradual skill development make it an excellent investment for anyone looking to learn the piano. If you are on the fence about purchasing this book, I encourage you to take the leap. The joy of making music and the skills you will develop are absolutely worth it.

Feature	Description
Structured Learning	Organized into sections that focus on specific skills.
Diverse Selection of Pieces	A variety of music styles to keep practice engaging.
Progressive Challenges	Gradual increase in difficulty to maintain motivation.
Accessible for All Ages	Suitable for both children and adults new to the piano.

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Why A Dozen A Day Piano Helped Me

When I first started learning the piano, I quickly realized that mastering this instrument required more than just playing my favorite songs. That’s when I discovered “A Dozen A Day.” This piano method offered me a structured way to develop my skills while keeping the process engaging and enjoyable. Each day’s exercises were designed to target specific techniques, which helped me build a solid foundation without feeling overwhelmed.

One of the most significant benefits I experienced was the gradual progression of difficulty. The book starts with simple exercises, allowing me to feel a sense of accomplishment as I moved through each level. I could see my improvement day by day, which motivated me to keep practicing. The short, focused exercises fit perfectly into my daily routine, making it easy to commit to regular practice without feeling like it was a chore.

Additionally, the variety of exercises kept my practice sessions fresh and exciting. From finger drills to rhythm patterns, each day brought something new. This variety not only enhanced my technical skills but also encouraged me to explore different musical styles. Overall, “A Dozen A Day” has been an invaluable resource in my piano journey, helping me grow as a musician while fostering my love for music.

A Dozen A Day Piano Buying Guide

Understanding ‘A Dozen A Day’

When I first encountered ‘A Dozen A Day,’ I was intrigued by its approach to piano practice. This series is designed for young pianists and beginners, focusing on developing essential skills through progressive exercises. Each book in the series caters to different skill levels, making it easier for me to find the right fit.

Choosing the Right Level

I discovered that ‘A Dozen A Day’ is divided into several levels, from beginner to more advanced. To choose the right book, I considered my current skill level and the specific areas I wanted to improve. The series includes separate books for different age groups, helping me to select a book that was age-appropriate and engaging.

Examining the Structure

One of the features I appreciated was the structured layout of each book. The exercises are organized in a way that builds upon previously learned concepts. I found it helpful to see a mix of technical exercises, sight-reading pieces, and fun songs. This variety kept my practice sessions interesting and productive.

Assessing the Content

As I browsed through the pages, I noticed that each exercise focuses on different skills, such as finger dexterity, rhythm, and dynamics. This focus allowed me to develop a well-rounded skill set. I also appreciated the inclusion of both classical and contemporary pieces, which appealed to my musical tastes.

Considering Supplemental Materials

I realized that while ‘A Dozen A Day’ is comprehensive, supplementary materials can enhance my learning experience. I looked for additional resources such as theory books, ear training exercises, and even online tutorials. These materials provided extra support and reinforced what I was learning in my piano practice.

Setting Goals

Before starting, I set specific goals for my practice sessions. This helped me stay motivated and focused. By using ‘A Dozen A Day’ as a tool to achieve these goals, I felt a sense of accomplishment after completing each exercise. I recommend reflecting on personal goals to make the most of this series.

Incorporating Regular Practice

One key takeaway for me was the importance of regular practice. I found that consistency was crucial in developing my piano skills. ‘A Dozen A Day’ encourages daily practice, and I made it a point to dedicate time each day to work through the exercises. This routine paid off as I noticed significant progress over time.

Finding a Teacher or Mentor

Though I enjoyed self-studying, I recognized the benefits of having a teacher or mentor. They provided guidance and feedback, helping me to stay on track with my progress. A teacher could also offer insights on how to approach the exercises in ‘A Dozen A Day,’ making the learning process more efficient.

Evaluating My Progress

As I worked through ‘A Dozen A Day,’ I made it a habit to evaluate my progress regularly. I kept track of the exercises I completed and the skills I improved. This reflection allowed me to identify areas that needed more focus and celebrate milestones along the way.

Conclusion

‘A Dozen A Day’ has been an invaluable resource in my piano learning journey. By understanding the structure, choosing the right level, and incorporating regular practice, I have developed my skills effectively. I encourage others to explore this series and make it a part of their musical education.

Author Profile

Mike Nielsen

Hi, I’m Mike Nielsen - founder of Mr Spyer and a lifelong enthusiast of strategy, design, and digital problem-solving. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats in the tech space. The name “Mr. Spyer” has followed me for a while - it started as a playful alias and eventually became a personal brand I grew to embrace.

In 2025, I decided to pivot. Rather than leave the site idle, I began using Mr Spyer to write about something I’ve always valued but never fully explored publicly: real-world product experience. Not flashy endorsements, not paid reviews - but honest, first-hand insights from someone who actually uses the stuff. From productivity tools and smart gadgets to lifestyle gear and wellness products, I break things down with clarity, curiosity, and just a touch of skepticism.

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