Teacher's Choice for the Young Pianist: Piano Book

This collection draws directly from what hundreds of American piano teachers actually assign and love to teach, cutting through the guesswork of repertoire selection. Allan Small's arrangements prioritize accessible presentation without sacrificing the character of each piece, making these recognizable melodies genuinely playable for students in their early intermediate years. The generous notation, explicit fingering, and pedaling guidance mean less time spent on logistics and more time spent on musical expression.

Opening this collection feels like stepping into a well-curated concert of melodies you've always wanted to play. Each piece lands somewhere between familiar comfort and genuine musicianship; you're not playing simplified "pieces for kids" but actual songs and classical themes dressed for accessible performance. The larger print and clear fingering invite you in rather than intimidating you.

Pianists at the early intermediate through intermediate level who want repertoire that sounds substantial and feels rewarding to play. This collection works equally well in a private studio, group piano class, or community recital setting, and appeals to learners of all ages seeking music they recognize and enjoy.

• Follow Small's pedaling indications closely; they're written specifically to support the harmonic structure and keep the accompaniment from muddying the melody.
• Use the suggested fingerings as a foundation, but adjust based on hand size and comfort. The fingering shown works for a typical adult hand.
• Give yourself permission to play at a tempo that feels secure rather than racing toward the indicated tempo marking. Most of these pieces shine at a relaxed pace.
• Practice the phrasing marks as actively as you would a dynamic change; Small's phrasing groups tell you where phrases breathe and where they connect.

These 64 selections provide solid recital repertoire throughout a teaching year, allowing students to perform pieces that family members and friends recognize and enjoy. The breadth of styles within the collection supports thematic programming (American pieces together, classical transcriptions separately, dance music as a set) without requiring supplementary books. Use the collection as a core source for spring recitals or informal student performance events.

• Reading and interpreting pedaling notation in context
• Phrasing awareness through marked articulation and breathing points
• Fingering independence and hand position management across varied ranges
• Sight-reading efficiency with clear notation and consistent presentation
• Stylistic interpretation of orchestral, classical, folk, and theatrical arrangements
• Performance confidence through recognition and emotional connection to repertoire