Something Special, Book 1: Piano Book

Hartsell's gift for crafting pieces that sound far more sophisticated than their technical demands makes Something Special, Book 1 a classroom staple. Students experience the satisfaction of playing contemporary-sounding work that feels genuinely musical, not like a technical exercise, and teachers appreciate how these pieces motivate intermediate pianists who might otherwise reach for tired repertoire.

These pieces inhabit a welcoming middle ground where modern sounds feel approachable rather than austere. The harmonic language breathes freshness while remaining grounded in melodic beauty, creating work that sounds like today without abandoning the lyrical tradition Hartsell carries in his compositional DNA.

Late elementary pianists ready to explore beyond traditional classical forms will thrive with this collection. Teachers seeking contemporary repertoire that builds student enthusiasm without compromising musicality will find exactly what they need in these 24 pages.

• Listen for harmonic color in these pieces; Hartsell's contemporary language often relies on rich chords and unexpected progressions that reward expressive pedaling over aggressive tempo.
• Take time with the dynamic landscape. These compositions use contrast deliberately, and observing every marking prevents the pieces from flattening into a single character.
• Consider the lyrical quality of the melodies. Even in pieces with modern harmony, singing through the top line with clarity and shape keeps the music from sounding academic.

Integrate individual pieces into recitals alongside classical and romantic standards to showcase the range of contemporary piano music available to young players. The collection's moderate length and varied character make it ideal for studio performances throughout the year, allowing students to rotate selections and build confidence with multiple pieces.

• Reading contemporary harmonic language and chord structures
• Pedal control and tonal awareness through dynamic shaping
• Interpreting expressive markings in non-traditional contexts
• Sight-reading fluency across varied contemporary textures
• Performance confidence with music that sounds sophisticated