Penelope Roskell’s
Essential Piano Technique
Penelope Roskell’s
Essential Piano Technique
Overview
The series draws on the principles of The Complete Pianist to develop a strong foundation of healthy technique in elementary and intermediate pianists, helping them to progress rapidly and confidently through these stages of piano playing.
Serious technique is taught through fun activities with charming illustrations, and imaginative original music by Aaron Burrows and lyrics. Teacher duet accompaniments provide a rich musical experience.
The books can be used alongside existing theory or method books, or as a stand-alone. Each book includes free videos and detailed teaching tips for teachers.
For an introductory video on the books please click here.
Video for teachers
Penelope has created a one-hour video explaining the rationale behind the new books and how to use them effectively, also demonstrating lots of practical, fun activities teachers can use with their young students. You can watch the recording of the video here.
Teacher support sessions
The Roskell Academy hosts regular online support session for teachers using the Essential Piano Technique books. This is an opportunity to meet other teachers who are using the books, ask questions and exchange experiences. Sign up to the mailing list at the bottom of the page to receive news of these opportunities.

Winner of the Presto Music Best Education Publication of the Year award
Finalist, Piano Education Award
Launch of new books
Level 2 and Level 3 in the award-winning Essential Piano Technique series will be launched in the UK and Europe on May 7th 2025.
US publication date: mid August 2025.
Level 2 takes a student to Grade 2 in the UK exam grading system.
Level 3 takes a student to early intermediate (Grades 3 and 4).
Pre-order
Books are available to pre-order here:
Launch events for Level 2 and Level 3, all open to the public
- 11 May 2025: EPTA free webinar 3pm
- May 14, 6.30: Presto Music/ EPTA West Midlands
- May 20, 2pm: Faber Music Teachers’ Community webinar
- May 24-25: Roskell Academy two-day teacher training event (in-person or online)
- August: US launch
- August 23, 11am: Forsyths, Manchester
- September 6: EPTA UK conference at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
- Sept 27/28 EPTA: Sweden national conference
- September 28, 4pm: EPTA Denmark, Copenhagen
- October 2-5: EPTA International conference, Slovenia
Sign up to the Roskell Academy mailing list at the bottom of the page for details of further in-person and online launch events