Piano for Fun: Piano Book

Thirty-six pieces that genuinely work as both learning tools and performance material is rare. Wedgwood's writing here balances accessibility with authentic jazz idioms, so your students aren't pretending to play jazz; they're actually learning how it works. The variety across titles like "Cool Calypso" and "Lazy Days" keeps rehearsal engaging and gives you flexible options for recitals.

Relaxed and engaging, with titles that promise fun and deliver on it. The writing has a conversational quality, like a musician sharing their favorite small-ensemble grooves rather than imposing formal rules. Jazz elements sit comfortably alongside accessible piano writing.

Elementary and early intermediate pianists ready to explore jazz vocabulary in a structured, playful way. Teachers using this book will find pieces appropriate for students making the leap from classical technique into contemporary styles without losing foundational skills.

• Establish the groove before diving into melody. Have students tap the rhythm section's pattern for a full measure before playing the right hand to internalize the pocket.
• Listen for swing feel in pieces marked with jazz phrasing. A metronome set to a slower subdivision helps students hear where the backbeat sits.
• Balance left-hand comping with right-hand melody so the accompaniment supports without overwhelming. This requires active listening to the overall texture.
• Record yourself playing the accompaniment and practice the melody part along with it. This builds confidence in reading against a live harmonic framework.

Slot individual pieces into recitals as solos or group performances, or build a short jazz suite from three or four selections for a concert finale. This collection works well in the second half of the academic year when technique has solidified and students are ready to explore style beyond classical repertoire.

• Swing rhythm and jazz phrasing
• Left-hand comping patterns in jazz idioms
• Reading lead sheets and block chords
• Syncopated rhythms and off-beat accents
• Connecting technique to stylistic interpretation