Popular music is one of the important ways to get involved in the music learning, both for children and adults.  According to the recent survey on the popularity, Disney animation songs and soundtracks of Miyazaki films (Studio Ghibli) appear on higher rank than others. Especially children are likely to play music which they hear frequently on TV or films.

On the other hand, adults tend to have specific preferences on their music selection, nostalgia rather than novelty. Thus, the popular music of 60s - 80s are likely their favorites; "Merry Christmas, Mr.Lawrence"(1983, Ryuichi Sakamoto),  "My Favorite Things"(1965,Richard Rogers) from classical films, music of Herbie Hancock, André Gagnon etc.

Self-written or self-arrangement are also increasing. On March 14, the White Day STEP was held in Odaiba(Tokyo), and 20 amateur pianists played on stage. The program was devided into 5 groups; Vocal & Self-written, arranged pieces, Disney & Studio Ghibli music, Jazz & Fusion, and demonstration performance by professional pianists. Participants were selected at the audition one month prior to the concert, and the performance standard was high. (video; "Medley of Japanese childrens' songs" / "Dance!" (arrangement of Mozart symphony No.40)    

Popular music is not only an entertainment, but also suitable for education. Mrs.Tomoko SADOHARA, an authorized member of PTNA and author of "Method of Accompaniment"(Yamaha Music Media Corporation), addresses that we can learn popular music profoundly by learning chord progression and analyse. "The important thing is what we can teach through the popular music", she stresses.   

Mrs.Sadohara also dedicates herself in selecting required pieces for STEP, the concert style evaluation system. Devided by three categories, Jazz, Rock&Pops, Latin, anyone can learn popular music within the 23 grades system. This systematic approach to the popular music is expected to bring higher quality of performances and increase of the amateur musicians.