Something Special, Book 3: Piano Book

Hartsell writes with genuine understanding of what intermediate pianists can handle musically and technically. His gift for melody keeps students engaged without padding the score with unnecessary notes, and the contemporary harmonic language feels fresh without demanding advanced theory knowledge. These pieces work equally well in recitals, festivals, or as rewards for solid practice habits.

Modern without being austere. Hartsell's originals balance accessible harmonies and rhythms with genuine musical substance. There's a lyrical quality that keeps these pieces from feeling academic or overly experimental; instead, they feel like windows into a different world of sound that's still warm and inviting.

Early intermediate to intermediate pianists ready for music beyond the classical and romantic canon. These pieces appeal to students who respond well to contemporary sounds but need pieces that don't require advanced technique or reading skills.

• Listen for the harmonic color in each phrase. Hartsell's contemporary sonorities deserve clarity in the left hand, so practice hands separately longer than you might with traditional repertoire to lock in those chord voicings.
• Resist the urge to rush passages that lie well under the fingers. The pleasure of these pieces often comes from space and control, not speed.
• Explore the dynamic markings as structural signposts. They're not arbitrary; they shape the architecture of each piece.

Pair individual pieces with standard repertoire on student recitals to show range and maturity. Use them as contemporary anchors in a festival or competition program. They also work well as rewards or motivators for students working through more demanding technical studies.

• Contemporary harmonic vocabulary and chord voicing
• Phrasing and shaping without relying on familiar Romantic-era conventions
• Control of dynamic contrast in modern contexts
• Reading contemporary notation and performance markings
• Listening for texture and color as compositional elements