In Recital® Throughout the Year, Volume Two, Book 5: Piano Book

A mix of familiar classical material (Tchaikovsky and Rossini) alongside original pieces that feel both approachable and genuinely musical. The duets provide ensemble experience while maintaining the focus on solo recital readiness.

Intermediate pianists preparing for their first or second recital experience. This book works well for students who need scaffolded guidance on both the technical and mental aspects of public performance.

• Consult the Calendar for Success practice guide early in your preparation cycle. Working backward from your recital date gives students a concrete timeline and removes the guesswork about when to begin.
• Engage with the metronome exercises deliberately. Start slowly enough that you can execute the technical challenges (rolled chords, double thirds) cleanly, then build tempo incrementally.
• Study the performance strategies section before your dress rehearsal. Knowing what to do if something goes wrong or how to manage nervousness before you step on stage makes a measurable difference in execution.

Assign this book 8-10 weeks before a spring or fall recital to give students time to absorb both the technical content and the planning framework. The duet arrangements also work well as collaborative learning experiences in group lessons or rehearsals between scheduled recitals.

• Executing triplets in both hands with rhythmic precision
• Playing one- and two-octave scale passages at various tempos
• Rolling chords with control and musical intent
• Voicing double thirds with balanced tone
• Interpreting simple ornamentation (grace notes, turns) within the context of classical themes
• Managing two independent melodic lines within a single hand
• Creating and following a structured practice schedule with measurable goals
• Managing performance anxiety through concrete preparation strategies