Finding Stillness

Finding My Way, composed by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate-level reflective solo. It is a study in broken chords, modulations, and tension/release. This lyrical selection will appeal to pianists of all ages.

Castle in the Clouds is an elegant solo for advancing early intermediates of all ages composed by Jennifer Eklund. This showcase solo is a great way to introduce syncopation and an advanced key signature since the piece requires very few shifts in hand position.

Simple Love Song, composed by Ron Levy, is an elegant solo that will delight intermediates of all ages.

Shades of You is a gentle, lyrical solo for early intermediates composed by Jennifer Eklund. This piece is part of the Shades of You songbook.

The Lullabies & Laments songbook features eleven originals solos initially inspired in 2023 by the arrival of my grandson Theo. It was clear from the start that gentle piano music consoled him, so I endeavored to write him his own lullaby.

Each dedicated piece requires controlled, balanced and calm playing. The repetitive, gently rocking rhythms aim to be soothing to both player and listener, with an overall relaxing feeling and an easing of any tension.

Something on the Slide is a Satie-esque waltz composed by British composer Joanne Grifiths. The accompaniment is built on two positions, C and G, with octave leaps from the bass to the chord. Awareness of balance between the hands is needed for this, to bring out the melody.

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.

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.

Imagination is an upbeat, lyrical solo by Sara Tomlinson. The opening features contrary motion between the hands, followed by lyrical and driving sections. If you or your student enjoy music with life and movement, this piece is for you!

May You Find Your Peace, by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level lyrical solo. The composer aimed to write a solo with a peaceful, soothing mood for times when a pianist just needs to be “alone with their instrument.” Although it is “very personal,” it is suitable to be shared in a worship service or a recital.

Waiting Is…, composed by Ron Levy, is an elegant lyrical solo for intermediate and beyond. This peaceful solo serves as a great exercise for players to explore rubato and lyrical phrasing.

Faith, composed by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate reflective lyrical solo. Its melody and mood make it equally suitable for recital or service use.

Wistfully, by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level lyrical solo. It is written in a “romantic movie” style, and will make a nice brief recital solo, or as a musical interlude in a worship service.

Ebb & Flow is a collection of eleven contemporary solos by British composer, Joanne Griffiths. Intermediates of all ages will enjoy exploring the various genres encapsulated in this collection of ambient solos.

Misty Morning is a Satie-esque, reflective solo composed by Jennifer Eklund. Ideal for early intermediates of all ages, this piece offers a great opportunity to introduce students to the concept of rubato. This piece is part of the Shades of You songbook.

Morning Stretch is a lyrical contemporary arrangement of Grieg’s Morning Theme and is part of the Dog Days songbook. Music by Jennifer Eklund.

The Secret is a mysterious, minor-key lyrical solo for early intermediates of all ages by Jennifer Eklund. This elegant piece offers the opportunity for budding musicians to explore nuanced harmonies and work on expressive playing and use of rubato. This piece is part of the Shades of You songbook.

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