Rhythm Roulette: Piano Sheet

Name: Rhythm Roulette: Piano Sheet
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-24474
Price: 3.50 USD
Availability: InStock

By Dennis Alexander

Level: Intermediate

Item: 00-24474

$3.50

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This exciting solo is sure to be a favorite for recitals and contests. Its rhythmic drive and energy will be appealing to students and audiences alike. The key of A minor and the presto tempo marking add to the mood and style of the piece. Careful counting is a must as the rhythm is highly syncopated. The piece lies nicely under the hands without any large stretches, making it a good solo for advancing students with small hands.

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Series: Alfred's Premier Piano Solos

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 4

UPC: 038081268194

SKU: 00-24474

More about this title

About the Composer: Dennis Alexander

Dennis Alexander has been composing educational piano music since his partnership with Alfred Music Publishing began in 1986. Over four decades, he has created more than 400 published works and recordings, establishing himself as a leading voice in piano pedagogy for students across all levels. A graduate of the University of Kansas, Alexander spent 24 years teaching piano pedagogy at the University of Montana before relocating to California, where he served on the faculties at Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Northridge. His performance credentials include a New York recital debut at Carnegie Recital Hall and extensive touring throughout the United States and Asia.

Beyond his prolific composing, Alexander has been active as a clinician, competition judge, and collaborative artist. He served as president of the Montana State Music Teachers Association and has been invited to lead master classes at national conventions. His compositions have been commissioned by numerous organizations and state associations, reflecting the respect he commands among music educators. He currently resides in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he maintains an ongoing schedule of composing, performing, and clinical work.

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Why we love this

Alexander writes rhythmically alive music that genuinely excites intermediate students. The syncopated drive of this piece gives players something substantial to sink their teeth into without requiring the hand spans or technical fireworks that intimidate advancing pianists with smaller frames.

What to expect

Propulsive and rhythmically engaging, this A minor solo pulses with energy from start to finish. The syncopation creates a playful tension that keeps both player and listener on their toes, while the presto marking ensures the piece maintains forward momentum without feeling frantic.

Who it's for

Advancing intermediate pianists with solid reading skills and a secure sense of rhythm are the ideal audience for this piece. Its moderate hand position and lack of extreme stretches make it particularly well suited to students with smaller hands who are ready to tackle more complex rhythmic material.

How to get the most out of it

Subdivide the syncopated rhythms in your practice sessions at a tempo where the subdivisions feel natural; then gradually increase speed until you can count the primary beat without overthinking the syncopation.
Shape the presto energy by thinking in phrases rather than individual measures, which prevents the piece from becoming a rush of notes and maintains musical direction.
Record yourself playing this and listen back specifically for clarity in the rhythmic patterns; your ears will catch unevenness that your hands might miss in real time.
Balance technical precision with the excitement the piece demands; clean articulation in the syncopated passages will amplify the rhythmic impact without extra effort.

How to use it

This piece works beautifully in a recital or competition program where you want to showcase a student's rhythmic sophistication and stylistic versatility. It pairs well with either Baroque or Romantic selections, providing a contemporary energy that rounds out a traditional solo program.