Synopsis
FastTrack Keyboard Method Book 2 by Blake Neely and Gary Meisner is a progressive piano and keyboard instruction book designed for players continuing beyond an introductory level. As part of the FastTrack series, it helps developing keyboard players build on existing fundamentals through practical, music-based learning that supports both self-study and guided lessons.
This method is created for piano and keyboard players ready to expand their skills with more rhythms, techniques, and stylistic variety. It combines structured instruction with real musical examples, making it suitable for learners who want to move beyond basics into more confident, expressive playing. The step-by-step approach keeps learning clear and approachable while still encouraging musical creativity.
This edition includes 95 songs and musical examples presented in standard notation with chord names and clear instructional guidance. The book is paired with online audio access using a unique code, featuring PLAYBACK+ tools that allow tempo adjustment, looping, key changes, and audio control for a more personalized practice experience. Players are introduced to richer rhythms, chord substitution, and a broader musical vocabulary.
By incorporating rock, blues, and shuffle styles along with intros and outros, this method helps players move beyond basic technique into expressive, real-world playing. The combination of guided instruction and interactive audio makes practice more engaging while reinforcing timing, coordination, and musical understanding in a natural, rewarding way.
Whether used for independent study, lessons, or casual playing at home, this book supports steady musical growth while keeping the experience enjoyable. It also makes a thoughtful choice for keyboard players ready to take the next step in their learning journey, offering both structure and flexibility for continued progress.
About the Author
Blake Neely has been playing piano since he was about 4 years old, although it took a while before real audible music could be detected. His fascination with music led him to other instruments, such as the French horn, guitar, and drums, but the keyboard remains his baby.
Upon graduation from the University of Texas in 1991, he moved to Los Angeles to experience the music business. He licensed music for Hollywood Records and later worked for Disney Music Publishing as editor of all printed music publications.
An award-winning composer and author, he has written symphonies, a piano concerto, and numerous orchestral and chamber works. He is co-author of the acclaimed FastTrack series, published by Hal Leonard Corporation.
Blake has worked as a composer, orchestrator, arranger, copyist, engraver, musicologist, and consultant for such prominent figures as Disney, Hal Leonard Corporation, Decca Records, Hyperion Books, composers Michael Kamen and Alan Menken, and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra.
Currently living in Austin, Texas, Blake spends his free time tuning into his family: wife Elizabeth, daughter Jordan, and son Jacob. Blake is the proud owner of a Kawai grand piano and Kurzweil, Ensoniq, and E-Mu synths and samplers. You can reach Blake via e-mail at BlakeNeely@aol.com.
Blake Neely has been playing piano since he was about 4 years old, although it took a while before real audible music could be detected. His fascination with music led him to other instruments, such as the French horn, guitar, and drums, but the keyboard remains his baby.
Upon graduation from the University of Texas in 1991, he moved to Los Angeles to experience the music business. He licensed music for Hollywood Records and later worked for Disney Music Publishing as editor of all printed music publications.
An award-winning composer and author, he has written symphonies, a piano concerto, and numerous orchestral and chamber works. He is co-author of the acclaimed FastTrack series, published by Hal Leonard Corporation.
Blake has worked as a composer, orchestrator, arranger, copyist, engraver, musicologist, and consultant for such prominent figures as Disney, Hal Leonard Corporation, Decca Records, Hyperion Books, composers Michael Kamen and Alan Menken, and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra.
Currently living in Austin, Texas, Blake spends his free time tuning into his family: wife Elizabeth, daughter Jordan, and son Jacob. Blake is the proud owner of a Kawai grand piano and Kurzweil, Ensoniq, and E-Mu synths and samplers. You can reach Blake via e-mail at BlakeNeely@aol.com.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
