Each duet is arranged for student-teacher (parent or older student) performance. These charming Duet Books increase motivation and add fun to practice time and lessons.
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Dennis Alexander has shaped elementary piano pedagogy for nearly four decades through his work with Alfred Music Publishing. Since 1986, he has authored over 400 educational compositions and recordings that have established him as a leading voice in accessible piano literature for young students. His teaching career spans multiple universities, including 24 years at the University of Montana where he directed the piano department, followed by faculty positions at Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Northridge.
Beyond the studio, Alexander maintains an active presence as a recitalist, collaborative pianist, and clinician at state and national conventions. His work has been recognized internationally through commissions, master class invitations at major conferences, and performance tours throughout Asia and North America. Currently based in Albuquerque, he continues composing and conducting workshops while maintaining the pedagogical standards that have made his music essential in countless piano studios.
Why we love this
Alexander's duet writing strikes a rare balance between genuine musical interest and realistic student technique. Rather than treating the accompanying part as mere filler, he crafts arrangements where both players have engaging material, making lessons feel collaborative rather than hierarchical. The collection rewards consistent practice by offering immediate, satisfying results in a duet context.
What to expect
Charming and approachable, these arrangements capture the delight of music making without condescension. Melodies sit comfortably under developing hands while the accompaniment provides harmonic context that helps young players hear their work within a fuller musical picture.
Who it's for
Beginning pianists working at the elementary level who benefit from the social encouragement and musical engagement that duet playing provides. Teachers and parents looking for repertoire that transforms practice sessions from isolated technical work into shared musical experiences.
How to get the most out of it
Establish a steady tempo before counting off; uneven teacher or parent accompaniment will disrupt student confidence more than a slightly slower tempo will.
Record yourself playing the accompaniment parts ahead of time so your student can practice independently with consistent phrasing and dynamics.
Balance your part so the student's melody clearly leads; resist the urge to add interpretive flourishes that might obscure what they're working to communicate.
Perform these duets in front of family or friends periodically; the performance experience builds motivation and helps students hear how their progress sounds in a real setting.
How to use it
Assign duets as performance pieces for studio recitals, winter or spring concerts, or informal lesson showcases where students play alongside their teacher. Scatter these throughout the year to break up solo repertoire assignments and sustain motivation during technique-heavy practice weeks.
Skills your students will build
Ensemble listening and coordination with an accompaniment
Phrasing awareness within a two-part texture
Consistent tempo maintenance while playing with a partner
Reading melody while hearing harmonic support
Musical confidence through collaborative performance
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