Catherine Rollin's Favorite Solos, Book 1: 10 of Her Original Piano Solos: Piano

Rollin writes with genuine understanding of what early elementary students need: pieces that are genuinely fun to play, not just pedagogically sound. The variety here is real. moving from the rhythmic swagger of "Lefty's Cool Strut" to the lyrical grace of "Sunlight Waltz" to the character work in "Sneaky Skeleton." Two pieces earned selection for Federation Festivals, which speaks to their musical substance and appeal.

These pieces live in the world of story and playfulness. You'll move from the comforting ritual of baking cookies to the mischief of skeletons sneaking about, the strut of a left-handed performer, and the delicate beauty of swans. The writing is clean and approachable, but never bland; Rollin knows how to give young pianists moments that feel expressive.

This collection works for any piano teacher building a studio method curriculum, particularly those seeking repertoire that holds students' attention while strengthening core skills. Early to late elementary students will find pieces at their level that feel current and genuinely playable.

• Find the rhythmic groove in pieces like "Hoe-Down" and "Rock It!" before worrying about tempo; getting the students to feel the pulse creates momentum naturally.
• Use the story-painting titles as a launching point for interpretation. "Witches' Brew" and "Sneaky Skeleton" invite specific character choices that make practicing more engaging.
• Spotlight the hand-coordination pieces like "Octopuses All Have 8" with a few students early in the year. Their success with these pieces builds confidence for the more advanced work that follows.
• Balance the upbeat, energetic titles with the more reflective moments. "The Swan" and "Sunlight Waltz" provide necessary contrast and teach legato control.

Scatter these throughout a recital program to break up more formal classical selections, or build an entire student showcase around thematic programming (nocturnes, dances, character pieces). The mix of styles also makes this invaluable for filling out method book practice between levels, ensuring students stay engaged during technique-building phases.

• Legato and staccato control in early elementary contexts
• Left-hand independence and coordination across varied textures
• Reading and performing pieces in different meters and key signatures
• Rhythmic clarity in syncopated and straightforward patterns
• Musical characterization and dynamic contrast
• Sight-reading confidence across a range of early elementary vocabulary