Circle of Friends: Volume One

Rick Robertson’s Circle of Friends is a two-volume series containing a total of 24 character pieces for piano in each of the major and minor keys (minus enharmonic equivalents), in a manner similar to the Prelude sets by Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and the like.

Kaleidoscope Volume 2 is an evocative collection of lyrical showcase solos composed by Rick Robertson. These elegant solos will allow advancing early intermediates to work on musicality and expressive playing via works that are stage-ready and appropriate for all age groups.

Lyric Moments is a collection of thirteen lyrical pieces, composed by Rick Robertson, in different styles to give the performer experience in melodic shaping, tone color, and touch. Styles represented include Romantic lyricism, lush Impressionistic harmony, and even light jazz.

Circle of Friends, by Rick Robertson, is a two-volume collection containing a total of 24 character pieces for piano in each of the major and minor keys (minus enharmonic equivalents), in a manner similar to the Prelude sets by Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and the like. The sequence as published is arranged in a rough order of difficulty, allowing for convenience in page turns here and there.

The title alludes as well to the familiar “Circle of Keys’. As for “friends”, each piece is dedicated to a close friend, colleague, or student. A few pieces in Volume One are at the early intermediate level, while Volume Two is solidly at the intermediate level with a steady trajectory of more demanding musical concepts.

Wind Whirls, composed by Rick Robertson, is an early intermediate level showcase solo. Its passages divided between the hands give it a showy effect, with some interesting harmonies.

Ragtime Rhapsody, is a ragtime spin on Franz Liszt’s “Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2.” This fast & flashy arrangement by Chrissy Ricker, ideal for intermediates, will dazzle audiences at your next recital.

No Worries is an uplifting lyrical solo composed by Lisa Donovan Lukas that will delight intermediates of all ages. This piece is part of the Journeys songbook.

Chopin’s iconic Nocturne in F Minor, Op. 55, No. 1, remixed in a modern lyrical spin by Jennifer Eklund. This mild and mellow abridged version is ideal for intermediate level pianists.

In the Groove is a fun-filled collection of thirteen showcase solos composed by Lisa Frederick. Ideally suited for early intermediates and beyond, these engaging pieces cover a wide variety of genres including jazz, blues, lyrical, boogie-woogie, and more!

Set Sail is a collection of eleven, showcase style solos for intermediates composed by Amanda W. Smith. With a balanced mix of flashy and lyrical selections, this songbook will be a favorite with students of all ages!

June is a dramatic solo for later intermediate pianists. The mysterious setting evokes the mood of a summer storm with tumultuous wind. Crashing pops of lightning punctuate the primary theme while arpeggiated flourishes mimic the downpour of sudden rain. This is one of a set of 12 month-titled pieces by Sarah Reaser O’Brien, NCTM.

Sky Castles songbook features eleven charming contemporary lyrical solos for intermediates and beyond. With its harmonic elegance this collection will be a staple that students of all ages can grow with as they progress through lessons.

Signs of the Time is a collection of twelve contemporary solos for intermediates by Lisa Donovan Lukas based on the astrological signs of the zodiac. Each piece includes a description of personality traits unique to each sign. So, what’s your sign?

Celebration is an energetic showcase solo composed by Lisa Donovan Lukas that will delight intermediates of all ages. This piece is part of the Journeys songbook.

Hold On is a lyrical pop solo ideal for intermediate pianists of any age. Music composed by Jennifer Eklund and part of the Dreamweaver songbook.

August is a new age piano solo, composed by Sarah Reaser O’Brien NCTM, for intermediate and late intermediate pianists. The pedagogical focus of this selection is small hand accessibility. The waltz-time setting and straight eighths are ideal for helping players achieve a fluid technique and a sense of forward motion. The melodic content is “hidden” within the right hand eighths and gives ample opportunity for developing sophisticated voicing.

Space Waltz, composed by Ron Levy, is a delightful showcase solo for intermediates. This cinematic-style solo will serve as a great performance piece for recitals.

Rhapsodies and Reveries Volume Two features eleven contemporary lyrical solos for intermediate pianists of all ages composed by Chrissy Ricker. Inspired by the sights and sounds of nature, these solos range in style from quiet and reflective to powerful and dramatic.