Martha Mier's Favorite Solos, Book 3: Piano Book

These nine pieces strike the rare balance between immediate appeal and genuine musical substance. Each solo stands on its own merit with a distinct character, so students feel genuine variety from piece to piece rather than a collection of similar exercises. Mier's ear for what intermediate pianists can execute successfully while still feeling accomplished means every piece lands as rewarding to play.

This book offers a sonic tour across multiple moods and textures. You move from the quiet reflection of nocturne-style writing to the brightness of folk-inspired melodies to the playful swagger of jazz-influenced pieces. The writing consistently rewards careful listening and thoughtful phrasing without demanding virtuosity, making each solo feel like a genuine musical statement rather than a technical exercise.

Intermediate to late intermediate pianists working through their studio curriculum and looking for repertoire that genuinely excites them. Teachers seeking material that bridges method books and performance literature will find these pieces both accessible and musically satisfying. The collection works particularly well for students who respond to composer-curated selections rather than thematic groupings.

• Explore the stylistic contrast between pieces like the introspective 'Autumn Nocturne' and the energetic 'Sunshine Jamboree' to develop your range of interpretive choices.
• Use the jazz-inflected pieces ('Jazzin' Jesse' and 'Sunshine Jamboree') to experiment with swing rhythms and relaxed articulation without worrying about classical precision.
• Pay attention to the descriptive titles as compositional guides; they hint at the character Mier intended, which helps shape your phrasing and tempo choices.

Use these pieces to fill recital slots at seasonal performance events; the variety of styles means you can program contrasting pieces for the same student or select individual solos that pair well with other repertoire in a concert setting. Students preparing for festival participation will find several competition-friendly options here. This book also works as a continuous source throughout the year, allowing you to assign one solo at a time as supplementary material alongside method study.

• Expressive phrasing in multiple styles (romantic, contemporary, jazz-influenced)
• Stylistic differentiation between nocturne writing and rhythmically driven pieces
• Pedal control for atmospheric effects in reflective pieces
• Rhythmic flexibility and swing feel in jazz-oriented solos
• Dynamic shaping and voice balancing across different textures