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.
Portrait No.1, Definitive Road, is a solo composed in the harmonic and melodic tendencies of Thomas Newman. Students will enjoy exploring the mysterious yet emotional chord qualities of this piece, as well as the variations of the melodic theme. This mid-intermediate to advanced level solo by Travis Lohmann is perfect for recital programming, preludes, and more.
Clocks by Joanne Griffiths has a contemporary feel with echoes of Philip Glass. Control, balance and concentration will be needed to maintain the 2 against 3 cross rhythms. Ideal for intermediates of all ages!
A playful intermediate level composition by Debbie Center. You’ll love the surprises as it echoes the call of the Song Sparrow and gets it dancing. Free nature play-along track included with purchase!
Ah, Capella! is a dream-like piece by Debbie Center, inspired by gazing at Capella, one of the brightest stars in the northern sky. Its lush jazz chords fit easily in the hands.
Blow the Wind Southerly is a traditional folk song from Northumberland, England arranged by Jenny Walker. Another familiar melody, “When the Boat Comes In” is combined with the main theme in the middle of the piece. The work tells the story of a woman desperately hoping for a southerly wind to blow her lover back home over the ocean to her. This is a variation-style piece going through several keys, suitable for the late-intermediate pianists.
My Father’s Waltz is a lyrical, pop-style piano solo for intermediate level by Lisa Donovan Lukas. This is a lovely expressive piece and offers an ideal lyrical showcase solo for students of all ages.
Remember Me is pop-style lyrical solo composed by Chrisanne Nahum. This piece is ideally suited for intermediates and will delight students of all ages!
Be Yourself is a contemporary lyrical solo by Lisa Donovan Lukas. This uplifting selection is ideal for intermediates of all ages.
Skye Boat Song, a traditional Scottish classic, arranged in a lyrical style for intermediates by Jennifer Eklund.
Written as a commemorative piece for the centenary of the battle of Beaumont-Hamel, July 1, 1916. Of the nearly 800 men who took part in the Allied offensive only 68 were to answer roll call the following day. Opening with the toll of bells this solo piano piece has a simple, yet haunting, Celtic-inspired melody played over a military drum-like drone.
Silver Lining, composed by Amanda W. Smith, is an elegant lyrical solo for intermediates. This piece is part of the Set Sail songbook.
Morning’s Promise, composed by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level lyrical solo with a mature sound. It is equally useful as a recital selection or in service playing.
Where There Is Love, 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 has a brief contrasting section, bringing the first theme to a climax before it subsides. It is also suitable for worship use.
When You Smile, composed by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level solo in a lyrical light-pop or jazz style. It is dedicated to jazz singer Dubby Spivak, widow of the American bandleader Charlie Spivak, who is a friend of the composer.
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.
Hopeful Dream is an original piano composition in a very romantic and nostalgic style, composed by Lisa Donovan Lukas. This is a beautiful lyrical showcase piano solo at the intermediate level, and suitable for recitals, weddings, anniversaries, or repertoire where an expressive, melodic piece might be called for.
Where Beauty Lives (Libra) is an elegant lyrical solo for intermediates composed by Lisa Donovan Lukas. This piece is part of the astrology-inspired songbook “Signs of the Time.”
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.
By the Frozen Mill Pond by Gary Johnston is a wistful piano solo for early intermediates of all ages. This elegant, introspective melody, conjures up images of a frosty day on a frozen pond.
Valse Sentimentale is a pensive lyrical waltz composed by Rick Robertson that is ideal for early intermediates. This piece is part of the Reach for the Stars songbook.
Snow Flurries, composed by Rick Robertson, is an early intermediate level lyrical solo. Pedal effects and mixed accents, including hemiola, add to the atmosphere. This is an excellent choice for recital or festival use.
Shades of You is a gentle, lyrical solo for intermediates composed by Jennifer Eklund. Part of the Shades of You songbook.
Tiny Lullaby by Rick Robertson is a brief elegant solo for the expressive early-intermediate performer. Ideal for students all ages and appropriate as church service music.