Circle of Friends: Volume Two

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.

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.

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.

A modern lyrical spin on J.S. Bach’s two-part Invention in A minor arranged by Jennifer Eklund. This intermediate solo provides ample opportunity to work on interpretation, rubato, and lyrical artistry.

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.

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.

Beethoven’s iconic Moonlight Sonata in a modern lyrical spin arranged by Jennifer Eklund. This mild and mellow version, transposed to the key of D minor, is ideal for intermediate level pianists.

The Magical Garden, composed by Sarah Reaser O’Brien, is a flashy lyrical solo for early intermediates and beyond. This piece is part of the Star City Solos songbook.

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.

In his third installment of the Kaleidoscope series, composer Rick Robertson spins a web of evocative, elegant harmonies encapsulated within thirteen spectacular solos for advancing intermediates. This book contains selections for the NFMC Festivals Bulletin, 2020-2024.

Creation Collage is a collection of ten season-themed character pieces by Sara Tomlinson. This book of contemporary, showcase-style works will delight intermediates of all ages.

Sleeping Beauty Waltz, by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, arranged by Lisa Donovan Lukas for solo piano, is a delightful, lyrical showcase piece for the intermediate pianist.

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.

Journeys is an engaging collection of twelve contemporary solos by Lisa Donovan Lukas featuring an array of tonal centers and styles. These selections are ideal showcase pieces for intermediates of all ages.

The Last Goodbye, is a contemporary spin on Handel’s “Passacaglia” from Suite No. 7. This elegant arrangement by Chrissy Ricker will be enjoyed by intermediates of all ages!

Enjoy the Ride is a delightful collection of intermediate solos by Lisa Donovan Lukas featuring a variety of tonal centers and styles. These eleven selections are ideal for intermediates of all ages.

My Kind of Joy, is a rockin’ and rollin’ spin on Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.” This showcase arrangement by Chrissy Ricker will be enjoyed by intermediates of all ages!