Calm

Lamentations is suite of solos composed by Joanne Griffiths for intermediate players to explore time signature changes, comparisons between simple and compound time, minimalism, and mostly how to express mood and emotion. Breathe is a peaceful, calming minimalist piece pushing the boundaries of 3/4 time and crossing it with more than a suggestion of 6/8. For Carolyn is an uplifting piece with lilting, contrasting themes, in Rondo form. Finally, Sorrow is an expression of grief, with a “bell tolling” theme throughout. It is also minimalist, centered around A minor and changing from 3 to 4 beats in the bar and covering several octaves of the piano.

Fading into Twilight is a mysterious, minor key, contemporary lyrical solo that will be a hit with intermediates of all ages. Part of the Dreamweaver songbook. This piece has been selected for the NFMC Festivals Bulletin, 2020-2024.

Cheaha Skyline, by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level lyrical piano solo, written in homage to his home state of Alabama. Cheaha Mountain, at 2,413 feet, is the highest point in Alabama.

Emerald Gem, composed by Ron Levy, is a meditative solo for intermediates, full of lush harmonies and a haunting melody. Cover photography from Back Bay, Newport Beach by Ron Levy.

Peaceful Slumber, composed by Jenny Walker, is an elegant lyrical solo for intermediates that serves as an excellent introduction to playing in 5/8 time.

Sheets of Glass is an ambient solo composed by Jane Tate. This minor-key showcase solo is a great way for intermediates to work on crossovers.

Something like Glass, written by British composer, Joanne Griffiths is a study in consistent and even playing of triplets in the right hand, with changing clefs in the left hand that explore the outer areas of the keyboard. Intermediates will enjoy the essence of Philip Glass that flows through this evocative solo.

Lullaby, composed by Joanne Griffiths, is a lyrical and expressive piece, suitable for an intermediate player. It is based on the primary chords of D major, with the occasional chromatic twist.

Contentment, composed by Rick Robertson, is a lyrical solo for early intermediates with a mature sound. Long pedal effects add to the atmosphere.

Farewell, composed by Ryan Chesser, is an elegant lyrical solo for intermediates. This selection is part of the Winds of Change songbook.

Reflection is a lyrical solo by Sara Tomlinson with a reflective quality. The piece is in 6/8 time in the key of A minor. The listener could easily get lost in the melody, which is supported by a hypnotic left-hand accompaniment.

Drifting, composed by Lisa Shoemaker, is a moody, minor-key meandering piece that provides intermediates ample opportunity to develop smooth, flowing left hand triplet patterns, as well as gain experience with the una corda pedal.

Impressions is a suite of contemporary lyrical solos by Jennifer Eklund that will be a hit with intermediates of all ages.

This is a wistful waltz by Jenny Walker, with a slightly quirky melody and steady waltz-like base line. The middle section has a deeper, more self-assured feel and switches to the major key. The piece is to be played with extreme sensitivity, especially at the end when the marionette finally runs out of steam.

Skyscape, composed by Amanda W. Smith, is an ambient lyrical solo for intermediate pianists of any age. This piece is part of the Set Sail songbook.

Trillium is a graceful lyrical solo composed by Sarah Reaser O’Brien. This elegant waltz is ideal for intermediates.

Something More is an uplifting contemporary lyrical solo for intermediates by British composer Joanne Griffiths.

Sun Suite, by Canadian composer Lisa Frederick, is a set of three contemporary lyrical solos celebrating the beauty of the sun at different points of the day. This set is ideal for intermediates of all ages and will function well as a set or as separate showcase solos.