FJH Solos at Their Best!, Book 2: Piano Book

This collection pulls together diverse styles and moods without sacrificing musicality or coherence. The optional duets turn solo repertoire into ensemble moments, and the mix of blues, character pieces, and contemporary song arrangements gives you real variety for a single-book recital program.

Playful and purposeful. You'll find charm in titles like Cool Cat Strut and Baby Elephant Blues, intrigue in Antique Music Box, and genuine emotional depth in Moonlight Serenade. These aren't throwaway pieces; they're written with personality.

Elementary piano students ready for recital-worthy material that spans multiple genres and moods. Teachers who want their students to experience blues, character pieces, and contemporary arrangements without overwhelming difficulty.

• Work the harmonic language first, especially in the blues pieces. These aren't complex harmonically, but understanding the changes makes the phrasing feel intentional rather than note-bound.
• Let pedal markings guide texture, not habit. Several pieces use it sparingly and strategically; that's the learning moment.
• Pair the duet options with a peer or ensemble partner before recital week. These arrangements shine with rhythmic security between parts.

Build a mixed recital around this book and let the variety speak for itself. The blues and strut numbers work as natural openers or closers, while the serenade and character pieces ground the middle. If you're looking to show what elementary students can express musically in a short span, this collection does that work.

• Blues harmonic progressions and phrasing
• Pedal technique and textural awareness
• Ensemble balance and timing in duets
• Stylistic contrast across multiple genres
• Musical storytelling through character pieces