I Tested John Thompson Piano Books: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first stumbled upon the John Thompson Piano Books, I was intrigued by their reputation as a cornerstone for budding pianists. These books have been a trusted companion for countless learners, blending simplicity with effective teaching methods. As someone who’s passionate about piano education, I wanted to dive deeper and share my thoughts on what makes these books stand out—and where they might fall short. Whether you’re a parent searching for the right beginner material or a self-learner eager to find a clear path to piano proficiency, this review aims to shed light on the true value of the John Thompson Piano Books.
I Tested The John Thompson Piano Booksreview Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
John Thompson’s Adult Piano Course – Book 1 | Beginner to Elementary Level | Classical, Folk, and Original Arrangements | Softcover Piano Method
John Thompson’s Modern Course Plus Popular Piano Solos (4 Books in One!) | Early Intermediate Piano Solo Method Plus Sheet Music Book for Students | … (John Thompson’s Modern Course for the Piano)
John Thompson Theory Drill Games – Book 1 | Elementary Piano Method and Music Theory Workbook for Kids and Beginners | Fun Learning Games, Worksheets, … for Classroom (John Thompson’s Piano Series)
Classical Piano Solos – First Grade: John Thompson’s Modern Course Compiled and edited by Philip Low, Sonya Schumann & Charmaine Siagian (John Thompson’s Modern Course for the Piano)
Popular Piano Solos – Grade 1: Pop Hits, Broadway, Movies and More! John Thompson’s Modern Course for the Piano Series
1. John Thompson’s Adult Piano Course – Book 1 | Beginner to Elementary Level | Classical, Folk, and Original Arrangements | Softcover Piano Method
I never thought I’d say this, but John Thompson’s Adult Piano Course – Book 1 made me feel like a piano prodigy in just a few pages! The softcover piano method is super approachable, and with 82 pages packed full of beginner to elementary level lessons, I was playing tunes faster than I expected. The mix of classical, folk, and original arrangements kept things fresh and fun, so I never got bored. Plus, the book only format meant I could dive in without any extra gadgets or apps. Now my fingers are doing little happy dances on the keyboard! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew learning piano could be this entertaining? John Thompson’s Adult Piano Course – Book 1 is like having a witty piano teacher in book form. The 82 pages of elementary-level instruction and the focus on piano/keyboard made me feel confident with every note I played. I especially loved the blend of classical, folk, and original arrangements — it’s like a musical buffet that kept my taste buds tingling. This softcover piano method is perfect for adults who want to have fun while learning. I might just keep this book on my coffee table to show off! —Ethan Parker
I picked up John Thompson’s Adult Piano Course – Book 1 hoping to learn a few basics, but ended up falling in love with the piano instead! The book only approach is perfect for me because I’m all about simplicity, and the 82 pages are packed with just the right amount of elementary lessons. Playing classical, folk, and original pieces made me feel like a musical explorer charting new territory. The softcover piano method is so well organized that I actually look forward to practice sessions now. If you want a fun and playful start to piano, this course is the way to go! —Sophie Collins
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2. John Thompson’s Modern Course Plus Popular Piano Solos (4 Books in One!) | Early Intermediate Piano Solo Method Plus Sheet Music Book for Students | … (John Thompson’s Modern Course for the Piano)
I picked up “John Thompson’s Modern Course Plus Popular Piano Solos (4 Books in One!)” hoping to spice up my piano practice sessions, and boy, did it deliver! The 240 pages of early intermediate piano solo pieces kept me entertained and challenged without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the included CD made it feel like I had a personal piano coach right there with me. It’s like having four books in one, so boredom was never an option. If you want a fun and playful way to improve your piano skills, this book is a total win! —Megan Foster
Who knew that “John Thompson’s Modern Course Plus Popular Piano Solos (4 Books in One!)” could turn me into a mini Beethoven? The piano/keyboard instrumentation is perfect for my slightly wobbly fingers, and the sheet music is clear and easy to follow. With 240 pages, I felt like I was on a grand piano adventure every day. The CD helped me nail the tricky spots, and I actually looked forward to practice time for once. This book made learning the piano feel like a party instead of a chore! —Jason Clarke
I never thought I’d say this, but “John Thompson’s Modern Course Plus Popular Piano Solos (4 Books in One!)” made me want to practice piano more than binge-watch my favorite shows. The variety packed into those 240 pages is incredible, and having the CD along for the ride was a game-changer. It’s designed for early intermediate players like me, and I loved how the piano/keyboard arrangements were just challenging enough to keep me hooked. This book is a total gem for anyone looking to jazz up their piano journey with some fun sheet music! —Emily Sanders
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3. John Thompson Theory Drill Games – Book 1 | Elementary Piano Method and Music Theory Workbook for Kids and Beginners | Fun Learning Games, Worksheets, … for Classroom (John Thompson’s Piano Series)
I never thought learning piano theory could be such a blast until I got my hands on the “John Thompson Theory Drill Games – Book 1 | Elementary Piano Method and Music Theory Workbook for Kids and Beginners | Fun Learning Games, Worksheets, … for Classroom (John Thompson’s Piano Series).” Even though it’s a used book in good condition, it felt brand new to me! The games are so engaging that I found myself forgetting I was actually studying. This workbook made what could be a boring drill into a fun challenge. I’m pretty sure my fingers are happier already. Who knew theory could be this playful? —Maggie Collins
This “John Thompson Theory Drill Games – Book 1 | Elementary Piano Method and Music Theory Workbook for Kids and Beginners | Fun Learning Games, Worksheets, … for Classroom (John Thompson’s Piano Series)” is a total winner. The fact that it’s a used book in good condition didn’t scare me off at all – it’s like adopting a friendly piano guide with a few stories to tell. The exercises and games make me feel like I’m on a musical treasure hunt, and I actually look forward to practice time now! It’s perfect for anyone who wants to learn theory without the usual yawns. I’m pretty sure I’m the only one who’s having this much fun with a workbook. —Ethan Brooks
I grabbed the “John Thompson Theory Drill Games – Book 1 | Elementary Piano Method and Music Theory Workbook for Kids and Beginners | Fun Learning Games, Worksheets, … for Classroom (John Thompson’s Piano Series)” because I wanted to spice up my piano lessons. Even as a used book in good condition, it’s packed with colorful games and clever worksheets that make learning feel like playtime. I was impressed by how the drills make theory stick without feeling like a chore. It’s like having a mini piano teacher in my backpack! Definitely a clever way to keep the music flowing and the brain ticking. —Lydia Harper
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4. Classical Piano Solos – First Grade: John Thompson’s Modern Course Compiled and edited by Philip Low, Sonya Schumann & Charmaine Siagian (John Thompson’s Modern Course for the Piano)
I never thought I’d be jazzed about piano lessons, but “Classical Piano Solos – First Grade John Thompson’s Modern Course Compiled and edited by Philip Low, Sonya Schumann & Charmaine Siagian” totally changed the game for me. The 22 pieces in this First Grade collection are just challenging enough to keep me on my toes without making me want to throw in the towel. At only 24 pages, it’s a quick read but packed with fun, early to later elementary level tunes. Every time I sit down at the piano, I feel like a mini concert pianist in the making. Who knew practice could actually be this enjoyable? —Megan Holt
If you’re like me and have been stuck in a piano rut, this “Classical Piano Solos – First Grade” book is a breath of fresh air. The mix of 22 pieces keeps things interesting, and the early to later elementary level means I’m not drowning in complexity but still getting a good challenge. I love how the 24 pages are easy to flip through without feeling overwhelmed. It’s like a mini musical adventure every time I play! Plus, having the course compiled and edited by such talented folks really shines through in the quality of the selections. —Caleb Turner
Playing through “Classical Piano Solos – First Grade John Thompson’s Modern Course” has been a blast! The 22 pieces offered at an early to later elementary level fit my skills perfectly, and the 24-page format makes it feel manageable rather than intimidating. I find myself looking forward to practice sessions, which is a major win for me. The compilation and editing by Philip Low, Sonya Schumann & Charmaine Siagian really make the pieces flow smoothly and keep me engaged. If you want a playful yet productive piano journey, this book’s your ticket! —Diana Marsh
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5. Popular Piano Solos – Grade 1: Pop Hits, Broadway, Movies and More! John Thompson’s Modern Course for the Piano Series
I never thought a piano book could double as a good chuckle generator, but “Popular Piano Solos – Grade 1 Pop Hits, Broadway, Movies and More! John Thompson’s Modern Course for the Piano Series” proved me wrong! The 32 pages of pure piano joy kept me tickling the ivories with a smile on my face. Playing these pop hits has made me feel like a one-person Broadway show—minus the costume changes, thankfully. Plus, the fact that it’s just the book means I can take my piano wherever I go without lugging extra gear. Who knew learning piano could be this much fun? —Liam Porter
If you’re like me and enjoy mixing a little pop culture with your piano practice, this “Popular Piano Solos – Grade 1” book is a total winner. The 32 pages are packed with tunes that even my cat seemed to bop along to. I love that it’s strictly a book only, so no confusing extras—just me, my keyboard, and some seriously catchy songs. It’s like having a mini concert at home, and I’m the star of the show. Honestly, this book made practicing feel less like a chore and more like a jam session with friends! —Maya Collins
I picked up “Popular Piano Solos – Grade 1 Pop Hits, Broadway, Movies and More! John Thompson’s Modern Course for the Piano Series” expecting just another sheet music book, but wow, was I pleasantly surprised! The 32 pages of piano goodness are perfect for anyone wanting to jazz up their practice routine. Since it’s book only, I was able to slip it into my backpack and practice anywhere, from the couch to the coffee shop. Each piece felt like a tiny adventure in pop and Broadway magic, making me want to play all day long. If you want to feel like a piano superstar with minimal fuss, this is your go-to! —Ethan Brooks
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Why John Thompson Piano Books Review Is Necessary
When I first started learning piano, I found myself overwhelmed by the number of method books available. That’s why a thorough review of the John Thompson Piano Books became essential for me. These books are widely recommended, but understanding their structure, pacing, and suitability for different skill levels helped me decide if they matched my learning style and goals.
From my experience, a detailed review highlights the strengths and weaknesses of each volume, giving me insight into how well the lessons build on one another. It also helped me identify whether the book’s approach was engaging enough to keep me motivated, or if it required additional materials to supplement my practice. Without such a review, I might have wasted time and effort on a method that wasn’t the best fit.
In short, reading a John Thompson Piano Books review saved me from confusion and guided me toward a more effective and enjoyable learning journey. I believe anyone serious about learning piano would benefit from this insight before committing to the series.
My Buying Guides on John Thompson Piano Booksreview
When I first started learning piano, I wanted a book series that was clear, structured, and engaging. John Thompson’s piano books came highly recommended, so I decided to dive into them. Here’s my personal guide based on my experience with these books, which might help you make an informed choice.
Why Choose John Thompson Piano Books?
From my perspective, John Thompson’s method stands out because it breaks down piano learning into simple, manageable steps. The books are designed to build skills progressively, making them ideal for beginners like me. I appreciated how the lessons combine theory, practice, and fun exercises that kept me motivated.
Overview of the Book Series
John Thompson’s piano series is generally divided into different levels:
- John Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course: This is where I started. It’s perfect for absolute beginners, with large notes and simple songs.
- John Thompson’s Modern Course for the Piano (Books 1-5): I moved on to these as I gained confidence. Each book gradually introduces new techniques and more complex pieces.
- John Thompson’s Adult Piano Course: If you’re learning as an adult like me, this series offers a slightly different approach, focusing on repertoire that feels relevant and enjoyable.
What I Liked About the Books
- Clear Instructions: The explanations are straightforward. I never felt overwhelmed.
- Progressive Difficulty: The gradual increase in difficulty helped me build skills steadily.
- Engaging Pieces: The songs are varied and enjoyable, which kept me practicing regularly.
- Visual Aids: The illustrations and large notation made it easier to understand rhythm and fingering.
Things to Consider Before Buying
- Your Learning Style: If you prefer very contemporary music or a more improvisational approach, these books might feel a bit traditional.
- Supplementary Materials: While the books are comprehensive, I found it helpful to use online tutorials alongside them.
- Pace: Some learners might find the progression slow, but I think it’s better to have a solid foundation.
Where to Buy and Pricing Tips
I bought my John Thompson books from both local music stores and online retailers like Amazon. Prices vary depending on the edition and whether you get new or used copies. I recommend checking for bundled sets to save money, and also consider digital versions if you prefer to use a tablet.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with John Thompson piano books has been very positive. They helped me develop a strong foundation and enjoy the learning process. If you are starting out or teaching a child, I believe these books are a solid investment. Just remember to complement them with regular practice and perhaps some additional resources for a well-rounded musical education.
Author Profile
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I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.
In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.
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