Waltz Divine, composed by Jenny Walker, is in the style of a grand waltz. Rubato is encouraged, especially when it comes to reaching the distance in the left hand. The opening section has a catchy and memorable theme. The quieter, second section, is brief and the first idea soon reappears to conclude the piece. This selection is ideal for late intermediates.
Bittersweet is a dramatic contemporary lyrical solo composed by Canadian composer Lisa Frederick. This minor-key showcase piece will delight late-intermediates of all ages!
Pernicious Pumpkin is a whimsically macabre concoction of nursery rhymes by Stacy Fahrion. This eclectic, minor-key gem will be a hit with teens and intermediates of all ages.
August is a new age piano solo, composed by Sarah Reaser O’Brien NCTM, for intermediate and late intermediate pianists. The pedagogical focus of this selection is small hand accessibility. The waltz-time setting and straight eighths are ideal for helping players achieve a fluid technique and a sense of forward motion. The melodic content is “hidden” within the right hand eighths and gives ample opportunity for developing sophisticated voicing.
Cloak & Dagger is a fast and mysterious solo composed by Ryan Chesser. This showcase selection is ideal for early intermediates of all ages.
Wind Whirls, composed by Rick Robertson, is an early intermediate level showcase solo. Its passages divided between the hands give it a showy effect, with some interesting harmonies.
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.
Sad Goodbye, by Rick Robertson, is an early-intermediate level lyrical solo. It was inspired by the loss of his longhair chihuahua Missy, and is dedicated to “Missy, and all of you who have lost fur babies.” It is an effective recital solo, and just might help a sensitive player cope with the loss of a pet.