Leaps

Wistful Waters is a late-intermediate to early-advanced piano work composed by Travis Lohmann. It merges together minimalistic styles as well as elements of French Impressionism, while still focusing on lyrical phrasing and robust melodies. It is a wonderful work with a shimmering beginning, a vigorously emotional middle, and a tempestuous ending. Students will absolutely be enraptured by the ending cadenza. Teachers will enjoy instructing students on various techniques such as: hand-crossing, polyrhythms, rhythmic evenness, and even tremolo!

Meditation, from Thais by Jules Massenet, is arranged for solo piano in loving memory of my father, concert violinist Hy Shulman. I have such wonderful memories of Dad playing this piece on his violin at family gatherings. Years later, I repeatedly played a recording of Thais when I was pregnant with our son. He grew up to be an accomplished violinist himself and reminds me so much of my father! The cover photo is a self-portrait of me sitting with our son on our dock while gazing at the Milky Way.

Agent 001 is a spy-themed one-handed showcase solo by Chrissy Ricker ideal for late beginners of all ages. This piece can be played with either the right or left hand. This piece has been selected for the NFMC Festivals Bulletin, 2020-2024.

Goblin Dance is a spooky minor-key one-handed solo by Chrissy Ricker ideal for late beginners of all ages. This piece can be played with either the right or left hand.

Once Upon a Time is a whimsically macabre solo composed by Stacy Fahrion that is part of the songbook of the same title. This eerie showcase piece is ideal for early intermediates and beyond.

Linguine Tarantella, by Rick Robertson, is an intermediate level showcase solo. Written in the style of the Neapolitan Tarantella, its exciting dynamic changes and a cascade of flying octaves at the end will make this a showstopper for recital or festival.

Silent Slumber is an introspective contemporary lyrical solo by Ryan Chesser. This selection, graded for intermediates, will be a lovely performance selection for pianists of all ages.