THE IMPORTANCE OF FOUR-HAND USE IN PIANO TRAINING AT THE BEGINNING STAGE

Throughout the music training process, the basic aim is to help students acquire several skills such as musical perception, musical taste, musical habits and abilities. As part of instrument training, piano training has also an important place since the piano is suitable for polyphony, doesn’t cause chord problems, and is easy and attractive for children to learn and play. Four-hand piano training is significant in piano training, and numerous composers have composed their musical works using this technique. Four-hand piano, also referred to as ‘piano duet’, enables beginner students to develop rhythmic unity, perception of polyphonic sounds, and sight reading skills. Also, this technique helps them play the musical works at a constant tempo and increase their self-confidence. The present study, which focuses on the importance of playing duet in piano training at the beginning stage and its effects on students, is of great importance since it promotes the use of four-hand in both playing the piano and piano training and allows students to convey their opinions on four-hand duet playing with their tutors. 37 students who play four-hand piano at primary and secondary schools are asked to write an essay including their feelings and opinions on playing four-hand piano. The students are asked 9 yes-no questions in relation to the responses in their essays. The findings suggest that the students have fairly positive ideas about four-hand piano playing