Wistfully

Changing Tides, composed by Chrissy Ricker, is an introspective lyrical solo for intermediates. This piece is part of the Rhapsodies and Reveries Volume Two songbook.

October is an intermediate new age piece by Sarah Reaser O’Brien, NCTM. The constantly moving triplet figures in both hands are meant to evoke the swirling motion of colorful autumn leaves blowing about in the breeze. Rather than centering on a traditional melodic line, October allows students to create a mood or effect by experimenting with dynamic inflection and rubato to vary each performance. Dynamic indications in the score are merely suggestions – performers are meant to make this free-flowing piece their own.

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.

Ocean, composed by Sara Tomlinson, is a showcase lyrical solo for intermediates. This piece is part of the Creation Collage songbook.

If You Believe, composed by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level solo in a neo-Romantic lyrical style. It is very effective in performance, and makes an excellent repertoire choice for a developing pianist. It can also be used in wedding or service playing.

Music Box is a lyrical solo by Sara Tomlinson in the key of A major. Much of the piece is written with both hands in the upper register, creating a light and airy feeling. The middle section gives the impression of the turning and spinning movement inside the music box. Listeners of all ages will enjoy the sounds and sentiments of the music box.

Cosmic Mystery, composed by Rick Robertson, is an ambient solo that can also be performed effectively on an electronic keyboard.

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

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.

Winter Frost, composed by Rick Robertson, is a lower-intermediate lyrical solo. Its plaintive sound makes it an interesting reflective solo. The melody is primarily in the left hand.

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

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

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.

Introspection, composed by Rick Robertson is an intermediate level ambient solo with a mature sound. An opening lyrical, chordal section contrasts with a middle section featuring displaced accents. It also gives the performer an opportunity to experience the key of E-flat minor in a less intimidating setting.

Morning Mediation, composed by Chrissy Ricker, is an elegant and peaceful solo for intermediates. This piece is part of the Rhapsodies and Reveries Volume Two songbook.

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.

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.

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.