“Burnam” is a piano method book that allows beginners through intermediate players to build core technique while having fun.
It’s especially known for its distinctive illustrations featuring stick-figure characters, thoughtfully designed to boost motivation—particularly for children, but also for a wide range of learners.
This article clearly explains the features of “Burnam,” how to study with it, and comparisons with other method books.
What Is the “Burnam” Piano Method?
History and Overview of Burnam
- Includes many short, easy pieces, making it approachable.
- Memorable illustrations featuring stick-figure characters.
- Lets you learn fundamentals—like scales, rhythm, and finger independence—in a playful way.
“Burnam” is a series of piano exercise books created by American educator Edna Mae Burnam.
While it’s widely used for children, it’s also recommended for adults who want to review the basics enjoyably.
Why Is Burnam So Well-Known?
- Unique stick-figure illustrations: The intuitive, movement-oriented drawings spark children’s curiosity and engagement.
- Short pieces (exercises) offer quick wins: Because each piece is brief, you can feel “I finished a piece!” even with limited practice time.
- Smooth introduction to technique and musicality: From basic fingerings in each hand to simple chords and rhythmic variations, the layout enables natural, step-by-step learning.
The VR piano game “Sigure” also offers a step-up program with short practice pieces—Step-Up 30—making it a great option for beginners.
Key Characteristics of Burnam
Pros
◯ Motivating visual fun
The stick-figure illustrations keep children engaged and make it easy to start.
◯ Short pieces fit any schedule
Many mini-pieces can be repeated in 1–2 minutes, so you can make progress even on busy days.
◯ Gradual acquisition of fundamentals
Elements like repeated notes and arpeggios are introduced step by step so beginners can absorb them without strain.
Cons
◻︎ May feel insufficient for some
Fast-advancing learners or adults might find a collection of short pieces a bit too easy.
◻︎ Illustrations may feel child-oriented to adults
The stick-figure characters appeal to kids, but adult tastes may vary.
◻︎ Limited depth in music theory
Because the focus is “learning through play,” those who want thorough theory will need supplementary materials.
Effective Ways to Study with Burnam
Here are practice tips for Burnam and ways to stay motivated.
Practice Tips
◯ Tackle multiple mini-pieces per session
Since Burnam’s pieces are short, quickly review and practice 2–3 pieces a day to keep things fresh.
◯ Use the illustrations to imagine movement
Let the stick-figure poses guide how you should move and play—this deepens understanding.
◯ Don’t push the tempo too fast
For beginners, it’s vital to confirm finger movements carefully. Accurate rhythm and notes build a stronger foundation.
How to Stay Motivated
◯ Set small goals
Create short-term targets like “Today I’ll play this piece hands together,” and enjoy the sense of achievement.
◯ Drill only the weak spots
Because each piece is short, you can zero in on fingering or other weak points and conquer them.
◯ Practice alongside other tunes or pop songs
If Burnam alone starts to feel light, mix in favorite songs or easy pop arrangements to add variety.
Comparing Burnam with Other Piano Methods
Beyer
Difficulty / Stage: Absolute beginner to early beginner
Key features
Systematically learn the foundations of piano—note reading, rhythm, etc.
How to combine
Warm up with one of Burnam’s short pieces before Beyer practice to smoothly reinforce rhythm and finger use.
Burgmüller
Difficulty / Stage: After finishing Beyer to pre-intermediate
Key features
Twenty-five studies that cultivate beautiful melody and expression.
Recommended sequence
After building fundamentals with Burnam, move to Burgmüller to learn slightly longer pieces and expressive shaping.
Czerny
Difficulty / Stage: Beginner to advanced (Op. 599, 849, 299, etc.)
Key features
Studies that develop higher-level skills such as finger independence and fast passagework.
Recommended sequence
Warm up with Burnam’s short exercises, then take on the more demanding Czerny studies.
Hanon
Difficulty / Stage: Applicable from beginner through advanced
Key features
Intensively builds finger agility and solidifies basics like scales and repeated notes.
Recommended sequence
Enjoy Burnam for general practice, then use Hanon to strengthen specific techniques for balanced progress.
Inventions (Bach)
Difficulty / Stage: Intermediate and up
Key features
Learn two- and three-part counterpoint, pursuing independence between the hands.
Recommended sequence
After solidifying basics with Burnam, challenge the richer textures in the Inventions.
Sonatina Album
Difficulty / Stage: Intermediate (often alongside Czerny Op. 599/849 and the Inventions)
Key features
Learn Classical sonata form while deepening structural understanding of music.
Recommended sequence
Since Burnam is mainly for the introduction–beginner stage, many learners transition to the Sonatina Album for preparation toward larger works.
An Example Study Flow
- Burnam (Intro–Beginner): Practice enjoyably with stick-figure illustrations and short, approachable pieces.
- Beyer: Systematically deepen note reading, rhythm, and foundational theory/playing skills.
- Hanon / Czerny: Strengthen finger agility and learn more advanced techniques.
- Burgmüller: Broaden your musical range with studies that nurture melody and expression.
- Inventions / Sonatina Album: Acquire polyphonic skills and Classical form, stepping up to the intermediate level.
Burnam is especially recommended for preschoolers and lower-elementary learners who benefit from visual learning with stick-figure illustrations.
Adult beginners can also use the short pieces as effective warm-ups.
Next Steps After Burnam: Study Plans for Intermediate and Beyond
Recommended Books & Repertoire After Finishing Burnam
◯ Beyer / Burgmüller
Ideal if you want to delve a bit more into foundational repertoire.
◯ Czerny Op. 599/849/299 (30s & 40s sets)
For those who want to systematically develop finger technique and prepare for classical works.
◯ Favorite pop or anime songs
Leverage the rhythm skills gained with Burnam and keep practice enjoyable.
Combining with Lessons and Online Study
In-person lessons
After self-practice with Burnam, getting objective feedback on your playing can accelerate progress.
Online lessons
At home, refer to the character illustrations while a professional helps you correct form in real time.
Summary: How to Make the Most of the “Burnam” Piano Method
Burnam is an excellent introductory resource that balances fun with fundamental skill-building.
Its humorous stick-figure illustrations not only grab children’s interest but also make it easier to visualize how to play.
- Pros: Short pieces provide easy wins; stick-figure art boosts motivation.
- Cons: May feel too easy for some adults; offers less depth in music theory.
- Effective study approach: Cover multiple short pieces quickly and drill weak spots in isolation.
- Next steps: Combine with Beyer, Burgmüller, Czerny, etc., to develop broader performance skills.
Start by solidifying your piano basics—together with the stick-figure characters—while having fun.
Then, by using other method books alongside Burnam, you can further enhance finger technique and musical expression. Put Burnam to good use and kick-start your piano practice.
The VR piano game “Sigure” also offers a step-up program with short pieces like Burnam—Step-Up 30—so beginners can enjoy practicing as they improve.
