Ordinary (Alex Warren): Easy Piano

Introspective and grounded, with the kind of vulnerability that comes through in stripped-down pop-rock writing. The arrangement preserves the song's intimacy while giving pianists room to explore both delicate touch and fuller voicings.

Late intermediate students ready to tackle repertoire beyond the classical tradition. This works for pianists who connect with modern songwriting and benefit from seeing how contemporary music translates to the page.

• Pay attention to the dynamic shape between verse and chorus; even at this level, the contrast between restrained and fuller textures drives the song's emotional arc.
• Lock in the rhythmic groove early. Pop songs live or die on pocket, so nail the accompaniment pattern before layering in the melody.
• Listen to Warren's original recording to absorb the phrasing and vocal intent. Your interpretation should reflect what makes the song matter, not just hit the notes.

Pair this with other contemporary singer-songwriter material to build a recital set that reflects your students' actual listening habits. It also works well as a bridge between traditional Alfred's curriculum and the real repertoire students want to play.

• Reading contemporary chord symbols and jazz-influenced voicings
• Balancing melody and accompaniment in pop-rock textures
• Interpreting dynamic and expressive markings in non-classical contexts
• Coordinating rhythmic independence between hands in a groove-based setting