My Best Friend: Early Intermediate Piano Sheet

Costley writes with real affection for the early intermediate player. This piece delivers genuine musicality without asking for technical wizardry; the waltz time and C major tonality create immediate warmth, and students actually enjoy playing something this lyrical rather than grinding through etudes. It's the kind of piece that reminds a student why they started lessons.

The waltz pulse gives the piece a graceful, unhurried character. Legato pedaling and the C major key create a sense of genuine warmth without sentimentality, letting the friendship theme breathe naturally through the melody.

This piece fits pianists in their first or second year of study who can handle position shifts comfortably and are ready for pieces with real expressive content. It works equally well for adult learners returning to piano or young students who thrive on repertoire that feels mature.

• Shape the melody phrase by phrase rather than measure by measure. Think of each eight-bar section as a complete musical statement, which gives the waltz rhythm direction and purpose.
• Keep the pedal changes clear and deliberate. Early intermediate players often either never lift the pedal or change it anxiously on every harmony shift. Practice pedal changes separately until they feel natural.
• Balance the hands so the melody sings above a gentle harmonic foundation. The right hand carries the tune; the left hand should support without overwhelming it.

Pair this with other approachable character pieces for a student recital focused on contemporary writers for young pianists. It also serves as an excellent piece for demonstrating pedal technique in a studio performance or casual student showcase.

• Positional hand shifts in C major
• Legato pedaling through chord changes
• Phrasing and shaping in waltz meter
• Melodic independence between hands