Money (That's What I Want): E-Z Play Today

This arrangement strips the song down to its essential groove and charm, making it an ideal choice for students still building independence at the keyboard. The two-page format respects attention spans while delivering a complete, recognizable piece that students actually want to play.

Confident and upbeat. The melody sits comfortably in the hand, and the accompaniment patterns establish an infectious groove that makes the piece feel more accomplished than it actually is. There's a lightness to it that comes from the song's original cheeky attitude about materialism.

Beginning to early intermediate pianists who benefit from material that connects to the music they hear outside the lesson studio. This arrangement gives them a quick win while reinforcing fundamental hand independence and rhythmic feel.

• Keep the left hand rhythm steady and conversational rather than metronomic. The pocket matters more than perfect precision.
• Lean into the syncopation in the melody line to capture the song's playful attitude.
• Allow the tempo to breathe slightly in the final phrases, letting the ending land with intention rather than rushing.

Pair this with other familiar standards from the early rock era to create a short set that appeals to audiences beyond traditional classical concert attendees. It works well as a program opener that immediately signals a student recital or showcase will include music students genuinely care about.

• Hand independence between melody and accompaniment
• Reading syncopated rhythmic patterns
• Maintaining a steady groove despite rhythmic complexity
• Shaping phrase endings with intention