Favorite Classics: Accompaniment, Book 2: Piano Book

Moving through four centuries of keyboard writing, from Baroque counterpoint to Romantic lyricism to early modern explorations. The second part deepens the harmonic and textural experience, making familiar pieces feel richer and less isolated.

This collection serves intermediate and late-intermediate pianists who need substantial solo repertoire with flexible accompaniment options. Teachers will use it for solo recitals, studio class, or ensemble-style performances when a capable co-pianist is available.

• Balance the student's melodic line clearly above the accompaniment; the secondary part should support, not compete.
• If using a parent or less-advanced student as the second pianist, mark your teaching part with tempo references and cues so everyone stays together through longer pieces.
• Explore the harmonic language in the accompaniment before rehearsing with your student; knowing what you're reinforcing underneath makes your part coaching more musical.
• Record the second keyboard part separately and have students practice against it to build independence and trust in the collaboration.

Slot these into student recitals where you want to feature strong intermediate pianists in a duo setting, or use them as anchoring repertoire for a studio class that benefits from peer performance. The variety across periods makes it easy to program a cohesive 30-minute showcase without relying on simplified versions.

• Listening and responding to an independent accompanying part while maintaining their own line
• Stylistic awareness across Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and contemporary keyboard writing
• Ensemble balance and interdependence between melody and harmony
• Rhythmic precision and ensemble flexibility in longer forms