Just for Fun, Book 2: Piano Book

Bober understands exactly what late elementary and early intermediate students need to stay engaged with the piano: variety without overwhelming complexity, and enough stylistic range that every recital student finds something that speaks to them. The mix of character pieces (from jigs to waltzes to Night Ride) means you're not relying on the same harmonic and rhythmic patterns across the book, which keeps both you and your students fresh during preparation.

A curated experience rather than a workbook. Each piece has a distinct personality and purpose, from the traditional charm of a waltz to the contemporary energy of a jig. The chromatic writing in Night Ride introduces a more advanced textural element that rewards careful listening and intentional execution.

Late elementary and early intermediate pianists who are ready for more sophisticated compositional writing but still need pieces that sit comfortably under their hands. This book works equally well for students preparing recital repertoire and those looking for music that makes solo practice feel like genuine musical exploration rather than technical drill.

• Pay close attention to the chromatic passages in Night Ride's right hand; map them out hands separately first so the shape becomes intuitive before you layer in tempo
• Lean into the stylistic character of each piece rather than playing them all at a consistent touch; a jig demands different articulation and energy than a waltz
• Use the variety of keys and harmonic colors across the collection as teaching moments about how different tonal centers affect mood and character

Program individual pieces across multiple student recitals to showcase different aspects of your studio's range, or use the book as your primary solo source for two months of lessons to give students consistent, quality material that grows alongside their abilities. The stylistic diversity also makes it an excellent foundation for discussions about musical form and character when you're working on concert programming or student musicianship.

• Chromatic passage work in both hands
• Stylistic differentiation (jig articulation vs. waltz phrasing)
• Hands-independent coordination across contrasting musical styles
• Tonal center awareness across multiple keys
• Pedal application for different musical characters