Megahits of 2013: Piano Book

Coates has a gift for preserving the character of a song while stripping away unnecessary complexity. Students recognize these melodies instantly, which removes a major barrier to engagement; they're already invested in the music before they sit down to play. The arrangements sit comfortably under the hand without sacrificing the hooks and moments that made these songs radio staples.

Pop music filtered through a classical pianist's sensibility. These arrangements retain the immediacy and energy of the originals while giving the piano's acoustic voice space to shine. You'll recognize every melody within seconds; the pleasure is in playing something you love on an instrument you're learning to master.

Any pianist who wants to play music they actually hear on the radio. This collection works equally well for middle school students discovering the piano, adult learners returning to music, or young pianists who need a motivational boost. If your student has been asking why piano repertoire has to sound "old," this book answers that question.

• Let the melody breathe. These songs are built on hooks and memorable phrases; rushing through them flattens their appeal. Pay attention to where Coates places the main tune and give it room to land.
• Anchor the left-hand accompaniment patterns. Many of these arrangements use repetitive figures as the harmonic foundation; locking them in early makes the whole arrangement feel solid and frees your student to shape the melody.
• Listen to the original recordings. Coates captures the flavor and energy of each hit; knowing the song's original groove, dynamics, and feel will help your students make more musical choices at the keyboard.

Use this as a bridge between classical study and contemporary music, especially for students who feel disconnected from standard method book material. These pieces work beautifully in informal recitals, coffee house events, or end-of-semester showcases where you want to celebrate what students enjoy listening to. Several arrangements (like the Downton Abbey and Hobbit selections) can anchor a "Music in Film and Television" concert alongside more traditional selections.

• Reading accidentals and modulations in pop song structures
• Maintaining steady accompaniment patterns while shaping melody
• Interpreting notation to capture contemporary musical style
• Building fluency with repetitive left-hand figures common in pop arrangements
• Connecting written music to ear-training through familiar melodies