Yuletide Treasures: Soundtrack

Joy to the World, combined with “For Unto Us a Child Is Born” from The Messiah, in a jubilant setting for late intermediates by Jennifer Eklund.

“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.

Cruisin’ is a laid back jazz-waltz solo by Canadian composer, Lisa Frederick. Ready for a lazy ride in a cool car? This is your ticket to ride!

O Little Town of Bethlehem in a peaceful setting by Paul Sweet that recalls the wondrous events of a night long ago. Rich harmonization and a gently sweeping accompaniment beautifully frame this holiday favorite.

Wandering is a beautiful, intermediate lyrical solo by composer Lisa Shoemaker. Rubato style and an uplifting sound will make this a student favorite!

Intermezzo in B Flat Minor, composed by Rick Robertson, is an late-intermediate level Romantic lyrical piano solo. It appeals to pianists of all ages, and is suitable for recital and audition use.

Seaside, composed by Rick Robertson, is a late intermediate contemporary lyrical solo. With its gentle syncopation, it suggests a modern barcarolle.

Rain is a pensive lyrical style showcase piano solo for late intermediate pianists. New Age meets Baroque, contemporary styling with elegant contrapuntal touches.

Portrait No.2, Spirited Castle is a late intermediate solo composed in the likes of Joe Hisaishi. Students will enjoy the bright and upbeat jazz waltz feel, soaring melody, as well as exploring scintillating quartal harmonies in left hand accompaniment. This piece is perfect for openers or dramatic finishes at recitals, festival solos, and more!

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.

Ode to Joy arranged in a contemporary lyrical style for late intermediates by Jennifer Eklund.

Waiting is a haunting, contemporary style piano solo for late intermediate/early advanced students by Lisa Donovan Lukas. This is a beautifully expressive lyrical showcase piece for maturing students of all ages.

Be Thou My Vision, mingled the “Shepherd’s Song” from Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, arranged in a contemporary lyrical style for late intermediates by Jennifer Eklund.

Under the Big Top is a fast and flashy, circus-themed showcase duet for advanced level pianists by Canadian composer Lisa Frederick.

Inspired by the rowdiness and excitement of a big Texas get-together, Up On the Housetop is as much fun to play as it is to hear! This new duet by Paul Sweet is great for late-intermediates and up.

Mozart’s Salzburg Symphony first movement theme arranged as an intermediate piano solo by Jennifer Eklund. Part of the Piano Pronto: Encore method book.

Keep the Change is a lyrical jazz waltz in B minor with a written out improvisation. Great as a launching point for intermediates into jazz studies.

Canon in D arranged as a contemporary lyrical showcase solo for intermediates of all ages. Music arranged by Piano Pronto author Jennifer Eklund.