Showcase Solos, Book 2: Early Intermediate/Intermediate Piano Book

Olson refuses to condescend to this level. Each piece in Book 2 arrives fully formed with distinct character and genuine stylistic substance. A walking bass line in Jazz Prelude, flamenco rhythms in Spanish Serenade, modal harmony in Medieval Festival, these aren't simplifications of "real" styles; they're authentic introductions to them.

Spanish Serenade pulses with heat and drama. Jazz Prelude swings with cool sophistication. Medieval Festival transports you to a different harmonic landscape entirely. This collection lets students experience the pleasure of stepping into distinct musical worlds without leaving the keyboard.

Students who are ready to expand beyond standard classical etudes and explore different musical languages. This book works beautifully for students preparing for festivals, building confidence in style-switching, or simply discovering that piano repertoire exists far beyond the classical canon.

• Nail the independence between hands in Jazz Prelude by isolating the bass line first; the walking pattern won't feel natural until your left hand owns it.
• Let Spanish Serenade breathe. The flamenco spirit lives in rhythmic freedom and dynamic contrast, not in rushing through the written notes.
• Explore the lydian mode's unique sound in Medieval Festival before worrying about tempo. Understanding what makes the fourth scale degree raised will deepen your interpretation.
• Use the variety of styles as an opportunity to shift your physical approach from piece to piece. Each demands different energy and touch.

Assign pieces individually throughout the year rather than working through the book sequentially. A student performing Jazz Prelude at a spring concert gains credibility with peers; Medieval Festival makes a striking recital opener. The stylistic variety also makes these pieces natural choices for interdisciplinary projects or cultural unit explorations.

• Walking bass line coordination and independence between hands
• Stylistic interpretation across jazz, flamenco, and modal music traditions
• Reading and performing in the lydian mode
• Rhythmic flexibility and rubato in non-classical idioms
• Dynamic control and articulation as storytelling tools
• Confidence navigating unfamiliar harmonic contexts