Mike Springer's Favorite Solos, Book 2: Piano Book

Springer writes for the student pianist with genuine musicality in mind. Each piece stands on its own merits while offering clear technical and interpretive challenges appropriate to early intermediate players. The range of styles means you're not programming eight variations on the same idea; instead, you get genuine variety that keeps both performer and listener engaged.

This collection spans moods from shimmering and ethereal (Crystal Glaciers) to rhythmically infectious and fun (Ragtime Romp), with atmospheric pieces, Latin grooves, and jazz-inflected works in between. The writing is idiomatic to the piano; these don't feel like transcriptions or compromises, but rather pieces composed with the instrument's strengths in mind.

Student pianists at the early intermediate to intermediate level who want repertoire that sounds good while remaining technically manageable. Teachers will appreciate having eight distinct pieces in one book, each with different stylistic and technical demands.

• Treat the stylistic contrasts as distinct interpretive problems. El Toro demands rhythmic drive and percussive attack, while Sunset Serenade calls for singing tone and careful pedal work. Let each piece teach you something different about touch.
• Lock in the groove on the syncopated pieces (Gossamer's Groove, Midtown Jam, Ragtime Romp). These aren't classical forms; they reward a strong sense of pocket and a willingness to swing slightly without losing precision.
• Use the full dynamic range available to you. Springer's writing includes genuine soft passages (Crystal Glaciers, Daybreak) that benefit from careful voicing and selective use of the soft pedal to avoid muddiness.

Build a recital around thematic or stylistic groupings rather than performing all eight in sequence. Pair Crystal Glaciers and Daybreak as opening contrasts, or program Jamaican Jamboree and El Toro back-to-back to showcase rhythmic variety. The book also works well as a teaching resource; different students can learn different pieces and perform them in studio recitals across the year.

• Stylistic interpretation across multiple genres (jazz-influenced, ragtime, Latin rhythms, impressionistic writing)
• Dynamic control and tone shaping in both loud and soft passages
• Rhythmic precision in syncopated and swung figures
• Pedal technique appropriate to different musical contexts
• Left-hand independence and accompaniment patterns in various styles