Jazz Gems: Piano Book

Rollin crafts jazz and ragtime pieces that feel genuinely musical, not didactic. Her early intermediate voicings balance enough harmonic interest to engage students without overwhelming them, and the stylistic variety across these nine selections means every student will find something that fits their personality and energy. The titles alone promise students they're learning real jazz, not simplified versions of it.

Playful and groovy. From the upbeat swagger of Jazzy Moves to the smoky drawl of the blues selections, these pieces invite students into the world of jazz without pretension. The ragtime numbers sparkle with rhythmic delight, and the closer Waltzing the Blues bridges classical form with jazz sensibility in a way that feels fresh and accessible.

Early intermediate pianists who are ready to explore jazz, blues, and ragtime styles with music that sounds contemporary and fun. These students benefit from Rollin's clear writing and from the opportunity to play recognizable stylistic language that feels rewarding and age-appropriate.

• Pay close attention to rhythmic placement in the swing figures; Rollin's jazz writing relies on precise timing to create that buoyant feel, especially in pieces like Jazzy Moves.
• Let the blues changes breathe. In Back Beat Blues and Miami Blues, resist the urge to rush; the character lives in the pocket, not the tempo.
• Voice the left-hand chord accompaniments consistently across repeated sections. This reinforces harmonic awareness and makes the blues progressions stick audibly.
• Use the printed score as a guide for touch and color. Rollin's piece titles (Tap Time, Circus Rag) signal the character she wants; choose your tone accordingly.

Feature one or two of these solos on student recitals to showcase range and personality. Rollin's collection works equally well as a concert solo, a student showcase moment, or part of a recital that celebrates different styles. Consider pairing a blues piece with classical repertoire to help audiences appreciate students' stylistic versatility.

• Jazz swing rhythms and phrasing conventions
• Blues chord progressions and left-hand accompaniment patterns
• Ragtime syncopation and cross-hand rhythmic independence
• Blues scale application and jazz improvisation readiness
• Stylistic interpretation through articulation, pedaling, and tone color