The proposed curriculum incorporates functional skills with standard repertoire and technical exercises. It includes objectives for four semesters of study stated in four areas: keyboard theory and technique, reading, solo and ensemble repertoire, and creative activities. The lesson plans are written for eighteen weeks of instruction and are intended to serve as a model for the structure of teaching materials and techniques. It is outlined as follows: (1) objectives, (2) materials, (3) teaching suggestions, (4) additional supplementary materials for classroom use.

The purpose of the study is three-fold: first, to determine the current status of the secondary piano program in the colleges and universities of Taiwan, including the degree requirements and the teaching techniques and materials used; second, to develop a recommended program of study for secondary piano students in Taiwan, incorporating current requirements as well as recent innovations in American group piano techniques and materials; third, to develop a week-by-week series of lesson plans for the first semester of instruction. The proposed program of study consists of a series of objectives for four semesters of study; the lesson plans are intended to serve as a model for Chinese colleges and universities that might want to implement this proposed program.

The literature from Chinese and American sources in the fields of general education and music education was reviewed as well as literature on group piano instruction in America. A questionnaire was mailed to the chairpersons of seven selected colleges and universities, the only schools currently offering music degree programs in Taiwan. The questionnaire was designed to gather general information on the participating schools and specific information on piano requirements for secondary students, as well as other information on piano teaching modes.

All seven colleges and universities completed and returned the questionnaires. A general description of the participating schools was presented with specific information on music degree programs and piano requirements. The data confirmed that piano instruction for secondary piano students in Taiwan is limited to private lessons. Traditional private lessons emphasize the study of standard repertoire and technique. There are little or no functional skills involved.