The Contemporary Keyboardist by John Novello is a highly regarded 576-page comprehensive guide, often referred to as a "bible" for modern piano and keyboard players. Originally published in 1986 and later expanded, it is designed to take keyboardists from intermediate to advanced levels across various genres. Key Features of the Book Comprehensive Structure:
Groove3 offers a video tutorial "The Contemporary Keyboardist: The Basics" which includes a PDF booklet covering fundamental drills and exercises. Amazon.com Availability Physical Book: Available through Sheet Music Plus Digital Formats: E-book versions are available, including a Kindle edition. Internet Archive: The original book is available for borrowing through the Internet Archive the contemporary keyboardist john novello pdf
Think of the book as your to modern music. The vocabulary (keys, chords, scales) is unchanged. You will still need to learn modern production tricks from YouTube or other sources, but Novello gives you the vocabulary to understand what those YouTubers are talking about. The Contemporary Keyboardist by John Novello is a
Most self-taught keyboardists hit a wall due to poor ergonomics. Novello dedicates significant space to posture, hand position, and arm weight. He deviates from pure classical finger independence (Hanon) by introducing "Contemporary Fingerings" designed for blues riffs, organ slides, and synthesizer licks. Rootless ii–V–I voicings in all keys, with voice-leading
: This technical heart of the book covers essential keyboard skills including: Harmony and chord qualities. Improvisation and the use of modes. Sight reading, notation, and ear training. The Business Scene