Soldier: Piano/Vocal/Chords

This collection spans DeGraw's stylistic range across four albums, giving pianists and guitarist-vocalists substantial material to explore contemporary pop-rock songwriting with real substance. The inclusion of previously unpublished songs from Free and Sweeter makes this both a practical resource and a genuine collector's item for students serious about interpreting modern repertoire.

These songs occupy the reflective, emotionally grounded middle ground of contemporary pop-rock, where introspection meets infectious melodic hooks. The collection carries an intimate quality despite its popular success, inviting performers and listeners into conversations about connection, disappointment, and personal growth without sentimentality.

Pianists and guitarists who sing or work with vocalists and want to perform contemporary pop-rock repertoire with artistic depth. This collection appeals to music students studying singer-songwriter arrangement, as well as musicians preparing audition repertoire or performance sets that extend beyond classical standards.

• Balance the vocal melody against piano accompaniment by thinking of the right hand as support rather than equal weight; let the voice drive the emotional arc.
• Pay attention to the rhythmic precision in accompaniment patterns, particularly in uptempo songs like 'Follow Through' and 'Dancing Shoes,' where pocket and pocket-awareness matter as much as tempo accuracy.
• Lean into the harmonic vocabulary throughout these arrangements; DeGraw's chord choices often create sophisticated color without requiring flashy technique, so clarity in voicing will serve the performance.

Feature individual songs in student recitals or ensemble showcases as examples of contemporary songwriting that rewards careful interpretation. This book also serves students preparing for college auditions or competitions that welcome popular music selections alongside classical repertoire, or supports music therapy and community music settings where familiar, emotionally resonant songs facilitate engagement.

• Interpreting contemporary pop-rock songwriting for piano and voice
• Chord symbol reading and realization for piano and guitar
• Balancing vocal melody with instrumental accompaniment
• Understanding harmonic language in contemporary commercial music
• Sight-reading and transposing pop arrangements