My Best Friend: Piano

Costley understands what intermediate pianists need: a melody memorable enough to make students want to practice, and harmonic content that feels sophisticated in C major without awkward hand positions. The waltz meter gives the piece rhythmic clarity while the pedaling instruction builds real musicianship.

Warm and nostalgic, with the gentle lilt of a waltz that captures the comfort of a long friendship. The melody unfolds naturally over clear harmonic support, creating moments of quiet beauty without demanding virtuosity.

Early intermediate to intermediate pianists ready to play pieces with genuine lyrical appeal. The straightforward key and manageable hand movements make it ideal for students in their second or third year of study who want to perform something emotionally engaging.

• Shape the lyrical melody with a singing tone; treat each phrase like you're drawing a single breath, even though your hands rest between sections
• Practice the positional changes without the pedal first to lock them in your muscle memory, then layer in the legato pedaling gradually
• Listen to how the waltz rhythm can either spring forward or settle back; experiment with subtle tempo flexibility in the melodic high points

Program this alongside other character pieces in a recital to show range and emotional maturity. It works especially well as a shorter standalone offering or paired with a contrasting piece in a different key or tempo for a well-rounded program.

• Singing tone production in the right hand
• Legato pedaling technique
• Smooth positional shifts on the keyboard
• Phrasing and shape in waltz meter
• Balance between melody and accompaniment