Memories of the Ballet

Pas de deux, from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, abridged and arranged as a lyrical intermediate piano solo by Jennifer Eklund.

Dancing in Dreams is an engaging collection of eleven contemporary ballet-inspired solos by Lisa Donovan Lukas. These original selections feature an array of tonal centers and styles. From elegant lyrical solos to upbeat fun-to-play solos, these showcase pieces are ideal for intermediates of all ages.

Remembering is a lyrical waltz by Lisa Donovan Lukas for intermediates. This piece is part of the Dancing in Dreams songbook of ballet-inspired piano solos.

Dance Medley from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, including the Russian, Arabian, and Chinese Dances, arranged for intermediates, by Lisa Donovan Lukas.

In a French Cafe, composed by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level lyrical solo. Its lilting waltz melody is presented in contrast with a slightly more animated middle section. It is an effective recital and festival selection.

Waltz of the Flowers, from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, stylishly arranged for intermediate piano by Jennifer Eklund.

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.

March of the Toy Soldiers, from Tchaikovsky’s iconic Nutcracker ballet, arranged for early intermediates by Jennifer Eklund.

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

Sugar Plum Blues, arranged by Chrissy Ricker, is a jazzy version of the iconic theme from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet. This piece is part of the Rockin’ Christmas 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.

March of the Toy Soldiers from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, stylishly arranged as a sassy jazzy romp for intermediate piano by Jennifer Eklund. This piece is part of the Yuletide Treasures songbook.

In My Dreams, composed by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level solo in a neo-Romantic lyrical style. It is inspired by romantic film music and will make an excellent recital choice for a sensitive player. This piece is part of the Lyric Moments songbook.

Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, arranged for intermediate piano by Jennifer Eklund.

Overture from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, arranged for intermediates, by Lisa Donovan Lukas.

Day is Done, composed by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level solo in a neo-Romantic lyrical style. A slow-moving theme with harmonic richness contrasts with a middle section that presses forward, returning to the first theme for a conclusion. This is appropriate for recital or festival, in addition to worship services as a prelude or offertory.

Waltz of the Flowers from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet, arranged for intermediates, by Lisa Donovan Lukas.

Remember When, composed by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level solo in a neo-Romantic ambient style. The opening section consists of harmonies divided between the hands, and a middle section adds some melodic interest. It is another of the composer’s favorites, is suitable for service playing, and is part of the Souvenirs songbook.