Romance in E-flat Major: Piano
By Dennis Alexander
Level: Early Advanced
Item: 00-PS-0017743
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Description
This impressive early advanced piano solo begins with a two-page introductory section that is reminiscent of the late Romantic piano writing of Rachmaninoff. Large chords and low octave pedal points create a rich sonority, and expressive countermelodies are played by the left-hand thumb. Following the introduction, a lush Romance unfolds, characterized by rolling arpeggios in the left hand and a long, singing Romantic-style melody in the right hand. Unexpected harmonies and decorative ornamental gestures make this a lovely preparatory piece to learning a Chopin nocturne or ballade, or a Rachmaninoff prelude.
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Additional Details
Series:
Signature Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
8
SKU:
00-PS-0017743
More about this title
About the Composer: Dennis Alexander
Dennis Alexander has shaped music education through over 400 compositions and recordings published with Alfred Music. His prolific output has established him as a leading voice in piano pedagogy, recognized internationally for writing at all levels from beginner through advanced. He retired from the University of Montana in 1996 after 24 years teaching piano pedagogy and piano department leadership, then continued his work through faculty positions at Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Northridge before settling in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Beyond composition, Alexander maintains an active presence as a performer and clinician. He made his Carnegie Recital Hall debut in 1987, has collaborated with internationally recognized soloists and chamber groups, and regularly conducts master classes at state and national music teachers conventions. His commissions span numerous organizations, and his work has taken him across Asia for performances and workshops in Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, and South Korea.
Why we love this
Alexander captures the essence of late Romantic piano writing without requiring the technical heroics of the originals. Students encounter genuine Rachmaninoff-inspired sonorities and expressive left-hand work while staying rooted in early advanced repertoire, making this an authentic bridge to the nocturnes and ballades they'll eventually tackle.
What to expect
Spacious and introspective, opening with the atmospheric weight of Rachmaninoff before unfolding into a lyrical Romance. The piece breathes luxuriously; rolling arpeggios create a gentle undercurrent that supports a soaring melody, while unexpected harmonic turns add sophistication and emotional depth.
Who it's for
Early advanced pianists preparing for Romantic repertoire at the collegiate preparatory level and above. Students who have mastered technical foundations and are ready to explore expressive counterpoint, harmonic color, and the interpretive demands of mature Romantic style.
How to get the most out of it
- Shape the introductory two pages with rubato and dynamic depth; the low octaves and large chords demand a luxurious sound that rewards pedal control and touch differentiation.
- Let the rolling left-hand arpeggios breathe as a true accompaniment layer rather than a mechanical pattern, allowing the singing melody above to soar without interference.
- Approach the unexpected harmonies and ornamental gestures as expressive opportunities; these moments invite artistic choice and personal interpretation rather than literal execution.
How to use it
Position this as a recital centerpiece for an advanced pre-collegiate student or as a bridge repertoire piece within a program that moves toward full Chopin or Rachmaninoff. Its eight pages and early advanced designation make it suitable for state festival competition, where its musical maturity and interpretive depth will resonate with adjudicators.
Skills your students will build
- Left-hand independence with countermelody lines and independent thumb voice
- Pedal technique for sustaining complex harmonic color across large chord changes
- Expressive rubato and phrasing in the Romantic idiom
- Interpreting unexpected harmonic movement and ornamental decoration
- Balancing accompaniment texture (arpeggios) with melody prominence