Martha Mier's Favorite Solos, Book 1: Piano Book

This collection represents a curated set of pieces that work because they balance pedagogical purpose with genuine musical interest. Mier's ear for what actually resonates with young pianists comes through in the variety of styles and characters on offer, making this a practical book that students genuinely want to play rather than simply assign.

This collection swings between playful and imaginative landscapes. You'll encounter the bustle of Bumblebee Blues and Swingin' and Swayin' alongside the quieter intrigue of Medieval Castle and the gentle humor of The Hiccup Song and Frog on a Log. Each piece invites students into its own small world while keeping the music accessible and the learning curve manageable.

Early elementary and elementary piano students ready for repertoire beyond method book exercises will find this book essential. Piano teachers looking for supplementary solos that hold genuine musical interest while reinforcing core technique will appreciate how well these pieces serve both performance and pedagogical goals.

• Attend to the style markings and rhythmic character of each piece. Blues numbers benefit from a relaxed, swinging feel, while pieces like Medieval Castle ask for contrast through articulation and dynamic shape.
• Use the piece titles as interpretive guides. The programmatic elements (Bumblebee, Frog, Hiccup) invite students to think theatrically about tone, tempo flexibility, and phrasing.
• Build confidence through variety. Moving between contrasting pieces in the same practice session keeps students engaged and helps them transfer technique across different musical contexts.
• Pay attention to tempo and don't rush passages simply because they lie under the fingers. Even early elementary pieces benefit from intentional tempo choices that serve the character.

Pair individual solos from this collection with other early elementary repertoire for recital programming that shows range and personality. The variety of styles makes these pieces particularly useful for studio recitals where you want each student to demonstrate their own musical voice without overwhelming their technical level.

• Reading and performing in multiple styles (blues, folk, contemporary)
• Dynamic shaping and expressive phrasing in early elementary contexts
• Rhythmic accuracy in syncopated and swing rhythms
• Hand position and finger independence through varied melodic and accompaniment patterns
• Understanding of program music and how title can inform interpretation