Long Goodbye

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.

Moonlight Nocturne is a haunting intermediate lyrical solo composed by Lisa Shoemaker. This elegant work is ideal for students who love to play with passion and a touch of drama!

Something like Glass, written by British composer, Joanne Griffiths is a study in consistent and even playing of triplets in the right hand, with changing clefs in the left hand that explore the outer areas of the keyboard. Intermediates will enjoy the essence of Philip Glass that flows through this evocative solo.

By the River, by Rick Robertson is an intermediate solo in a neo-Romantic lyrical style. Its gentle rocking in the left-hand accompaniment suggests the gentle flow of a river. It is very effective in performance, and makes an excellent repertoire choice for a developing pianist and could also be used as service music.

Paper Airplane by Sara Tomlinson is an expressive and flowing piece at the late intermediate level. Students will find the chromatic scales and left-hand crossovers fun and impressive. Suitable for students for intermediates of all ages.

Fields of Joy, composed by Ryan Chesser, is an uplifting lyrical solo for intermediates. This selection is part of the Winds of Change songbook.

Sky’s the Limit is an intermediate level contemporary lyrical solo by Jennifer Eklund. This piece is part of the Dreamweaver songbook.

Pearls by Jenny Walker is a beautifully lyrical gem of a piece, and forms a delightful intermezzo. Its simplicity and expressiveness provides an emotional escapism for intermediate players. The main harmony base fluctuates between minor and major keys, creating a beautiful melody which itself is merely a simple motif.

Lullaby, composed by Joanne Griffiths, is a lyrical and expressive piece, suitable for an intermediate player. It is based on the primary chords of D major, with the occasional chromatic twist.

This is a wistful waltz by Jenny Walker, with a slightly quirky melody and steady waltz-like base line. The middle section has a deeper, more self-assured feel and switches to the major key. The piece is to be played with extreme sensitivity, especially at the end when the marionette finally runs out of steam.

Mama’s Song by Rick Robertson is an early-intermediate-level lyrical solo. It is based on a theme penned by the composers’s mother. This piece makes for a lovely recital selection or as service music, especially for Mother’s Day.

January is a high-energy showcase solo with an uplifting principle theme, dramatic middle section, and flashy ending. This is one of a set of 12 month-titled pieces by Sarah Reaser O’Brien, NCTM.

New Horizons is an uplifting contemporary lyrical solo for intermediates that is also part of the New Horizons Songbook. Music by Jennifer Eklund.

Chanson, composed by Rick Robertson, is an early intermediate-level lyrical solo. With its haunting melody and interesting harmonic turns this piece is useful for recitals, weddings, or church services.

The Silver Lining, composed by Ryan Chesser, is a light and airy lyrical solo for intermediates. This selection is part of the Winds of Change songbook.

Come What May, composed by Ryan Chesser, is an uplifting lyrical solo for intermediates. This selection is part of the Brand New Day songbook.

La Luna Canta, by Rick Robertson is an intermediate level lyrical solo. The melody, supported by a triplet figuration, suggests another famous “moon” piece and the Schubert Impromptu in G-flat, and both inspired this piece. It is an effective recital selection, and could be used in wedding preludes or even as a church offertory.

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.