School of Velocity, Op. 299 (Complete): Piano Technique (Schirmer's Library of Musical Classics)

Educators and students alike will benefit from this collection of exercises. These studies are meant to played slowly with proper technique and then eventually faster and more confidently...thus, the School of Velocity.

Do yourself and/or your students a favor and pick up a copy of this book.


Exceptional exercises for the advancing student   July 28, 2009
Erica Bell (Washington State)
8 out of 8 found this review helpful

As a casual piano student thirty years ago, I stumbled on a School of Velocity collection at a rummage sale. Curious as to who would have the gumption to come up with such a great title (wouldn't it be a fabbo name for a band?), I paid up, took the tattered book home, tried out the first exercise...and INSTANTLY felt a difference. I'm so serious about this bold statement that I'll say it again: I INSTANTLY felt a difference--in my speed, dexterity, expression, the whole nine yards.

"Oh, sure", you scoff. "Like some ancient piano composer/teacher's little tunes are gonna improve MY bumpus fingers!" Yes, my friend, they will. Why? First and foremost, because they're great tunes. The melodies drag you in and make practicing fun. When was the last time you had fun playing Hanon?

These pieces fly all over the keyboard, and as you get better, you'll speed up too. They're big and epic, so let's face it--you'll feel much cooler than you probably are! And the technique--you'll learn to roll your hands, cross over easily, finger like a pro. They're challenging, too--I've not yet finished the book. If you're a serious, intermediate-level piano student, do yourself a favor and buy Czerny's classic "School of Velocity" collection. You won't regret it.




A must-have!   January 29, 2009
B. D. Hughes (Atlanta, GA)
5 out of 5 found this review helpful

I've been playing the piano for 10 years but I've never had any technical training. This book helps me break bad habits and play with great technical skill. I still have to practice everyday but I feel like I'm getting better each session. From what I understand, this is sort of a must-have for any true piano player. The etudes become more and more difficult as you advance and it really challenges me and pushes me to be better. Buy it!


buy it ONLY if you want to be a better pianist   December 6, 2008
Jose Hidalgo Herrera (San Jose, CR)
1 out of 4 found this review helpful

It's all you need to improve your technical skills, nothing else needed, only this book and time


Classic stuff does not need a review   November 6, 2006
X. Zhou (C)
9 out of 20 found this review helpful

I am a serious piano player, almost went to music school to study it for life...And this is my textbook.