Dennis Alexander's Favorite Solos, Book 2: Piano Book

Alexander knows what piano students actually want to play. This collection gathers eight pieces that teachers and students consistently request, which means you're holding music your studio has already asked for. The stylistic variety within a single volume lets you program something entirely different at each recital without needing five different books.

This collection spans moods from playful and energetic (Dizzy Delight, Newport Rock) to introspective and romantic (Notturno, Valse Romantique), with Latin flavor and blues-influenced pieces in between. Each piece has a clear personality and narrative arc, making them rewarding to learn and satisfying to perform.

Early intermediate through intermediate pianists in group lessons, private studios, or recital preparation. Teachers seeking varied, engaging repertoire that appeals to students while maintaining solid musical value.

• Notice the character titles (Dizzy Delight, Screamin' Cat Boogie) and let them guide your interpretive choices; Alexander writes music where the personality is in the notes themselves, not imposed on top.
• Approach the rhythm section pieces with rhythmic clarity and groove awareness rather than classical restraint; these are meant to breathe and swing.
• Balance the softer, lyrical pieces like Notturno and Valse Romantique with genuine singing tone, not just light playing.

Pull individual pieces for studio recitals when you want variety on a single program. Use contrasting selections for competitions or festivals where style range is valued. The book's breadth makes it ideal for students moving from early intermediate to intermediate, offering fresh material that still reinforces foundational technique.

• Rhythmic precision and swing feel in contemporary styles
• Lyrical tone production and phrasing in ballad-style pieces
• Left hand independence and figured bass awareness
• Pedal control across different musical textures
• Tempo control and character interpretation