Just for You & Me, Book 1: Piano Duet (1 Piano, 4 Hands) Book

Alexander writes duets that actually work in the studio because he understands both the student experience and the pedagogical arc. This collection balances technical variety (syncopation, mixed meters, contemporary harmonies) with genuine musical content that keeps students engaged and makes rehearsal feel like collaboration rather than drill. The inclusion of "Reflections" on the ABRSM 2025-2026 Syllabus signals the caliber of writing here.

The collection pulses with contemporary charm and emotional warmth. You'll find tender moments in the ballads and reflective pieces alongside the rhythmic drive of the rags, all wrapped in approachable harmonies that feel fresh without demanding advanced harmonic literacy.

This book serves late elementary through early intermediate pianists ready to experience ensemble playing at one instrument. Students benefit from the variety of musical styles and technical approaches, while teachers appreciate having accessible yet musically substantial duets that work equally well for students of similar ability levels or mixed-age studio partnerships.

• Balance the primo and secondo parts by asking the player on top to voice melodies with a singing tone while the accompanist in the lower register provides gentle harmonic support without overwhelming.
• In pieces featuring syncopation, practice slowly with both hands isolated, then bring them together using a metronome set to half tempo to lock the rhythmic relationship.
• Attend to the title of each piece as a guide to interpretation; "Sentimental Waltz" calls for lyrical phrasing and rubato, while "Simple Dessert Rag" needs crisp articulation and a lighter touch.
• Use the mixed meter passages as an opportunity to discuss how composers signal changes; have students mark the beat pattern visually before performance.

Weave these duets into studio recitals as performance pieces that celebrate partnership and ensemble experience at the piano. The variety of styles means you can program a single piece or build a thematic grouping (pairing the rags together, for instance) without repetition. They also work beautifully as concert warm-ups or as enrichment when students need a break from solo practice.

• Playing rhythmic syncopation in ensemble context
• Reading and executing mixed meters (references to 3/4 and 4/4 changes)
• Balancing primo and secondo parts with independent hand control
• Interpreting contemporary harmonic language and mellow jazz-influenced sonorities
• Developing ensemble listening and rhythmic coordination with a partner