Seasons Change

“Picking Marigolds” is a composition written by Travis Lohmann. It explores the use of contemporary harmonies, alternating meters, as well as chordal extensions. While still providing a simple and flowing melody, it is taken through a variety of transformations both harmonic and melodic. Students and teachers alike will enjoy picking apart the musical sequences scattered throughout the piece, as well as the overwhelming sense of serenity this piece brings. Definitely could be used as an interlude for a recital program, or even for social gatherings.

For many people, November is a month for giving thanks. This intermediate piece by Sarah Reaser O’Brien, NCTM, is a contemporary rendering of a hymn-like melody. November symbolizes a musical token of gratitude for family and friends who have been with us through good times and bad and with whom we love to spend our time. The ternary form offers an uplifting first section followed by a middle theme of more serious and reflective implication. The middle theme modulates into a return of the first in a new key, representing a triumphant overcoming of life’s struggles with the help of those we hold dear.

Spring Has Sprung, composed by Jennifer Eklund, is an elegant contemporary lyrical solo for intermediates and up.

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

Simple Gifts, arranged in a contemporary lyrical style for intermediate piano by Jennifer Eklund. This version is part of the “Sounds of the Spirit” sacred songbook.

Come, Ye Thankful People, Come, a Thanksgiving favorite blended with “Simple Gifts” in a lush arrangement for late intermediates by Jennifer Eklund.

Falling Leaves is an intermediate level lyrical contemporary solo that is part of the Shades of You and Impressions songbooks. Music by Jennifer Eklund.

Based on the traditional English folk song and nursery rhyme, “Lavender’s Blue,” this delightful arrangement by Jenny Walker adds unexpected harmonies and key changes. The march-like 4/4 section gives a new, sombre feel which quickly gives way to a brighter, more flamboyant ending.

Graceful and charming, this original bagatelle by Paul Sweet is as delightful as a spring day. Teachers and students will delight in shaping its multi-voice textures and expressive potential.

Picking Daisies, composed by Travis Lohmann, is a light-hearted and jovial jazz-influenced waltz appropriate for mid-intermediate to advanced pianists, and focuses on such concepts as: cantabile legato lines, syncopated rhythms, dynamic expressivity, left and right hand leaps, triplet passage work and rolled chords. Best suited as a showcase solo, the highlight of this piece is the written-out solo over the chord changes, sure to dazzle the audience. With dexterous phrases, catchy melodic segments, and infectious rhythms, this piece is certain to brighten your day and those nearby!

Strolling Down a Country Road is a medley of two Eklund favorites, Down a Country Road and Strolling. Contemporary lyrical music by Jennifer Eklund and part of the Dreamweaver songbook.

Hope, composed by Rick Robertson, is a lyrical solo for intermediates with a mature sound. It is a “song without words” in a loose rondo form. It is suitable for recitals and worship services.

New Beginnings is an upbeat and uplifting contemporary pop-style solo by Canadian composer Lisa Frederick. This selection will delight intermediates of all ages and makes a great recital or festival piece.

Autumn Reverie, composed by Chrissy Ricker, is an elegant minor-key waltz for early intermediates. This piece is part of the Rhapsodies and Reveries songbook.

Ruby Skies is an uplifting contemporary lyrical solo, for intermediates and beyond, composed by Jennifer Eklund. This solo makes for a lovely recital selection or as music in church services. This piece is part of the “Sounds of the Spirit” songbook.

First Flower, composed by Ron Levy, is a meditative solo for intermediates, full of lush harmonies and a great exercise to introduce students to shifting meters and rubato. Cover photography from Back Bay, Newport Beach by Ron Levy.

Autumn Leaves, composed by Ryan Chesser, is an elegant lyrical solo for early intermediates. This selection is part of the Winds of Change songbook.

The Reawakening is an uplifting contemporary lyrical solo that will be a hit with intermediates of all ages. Music composed by Jennifer Eklund and part of the Impressions songbook.