I Want What I Want When I Want It (from Mlle. Modiste): E-Z Play Today

The E-Z Play Today edition strips away unnecessary complexity while preserving the character of this delightful show tune. Students encounter a piece with real theatrical personality and a memorable melody that rewards careful phrasing and attention to text underlay.

Playful determination meets Victorian charm. The melody bounces with personality, full of the kind of spirited humor that made early American musical theater so engaging. It's the sound of a character who knows what they want and isn't afraid to say so.

Early intermediate pianists who are ready for repertoire with theatrical character. This works well for students learning to balance melody and accompaniment while building their show music vocabulary.

• Shape the melody with the lyrics in mind, even if you're performing it instrumentally. The song's charm depends on understanding where the words would naturally breathe.
• Keep the accompaniment crisp and light. This is a character song meant to sparkle, not overwhelm.
• Pay attention to any dynamic markings and tempo indications provided. They guide the comic timing built into the score.

Include this in a Broadway or American musical theater themed concert, or use it as a lighter piece alongside more formal repertoire to show variety in your students' musical interests. Its theatrical nature makes it particularly effective in cabaret-style settings or interdisciplinary performances with drama.

• Phrasing melodic lines with theatrical intent
• Balancing melody prominence with accompaniment texture
• Interpreting character and personality through musical choices
• Reading and performing show music idiomatically