The Essential Jim Brickman, Volume 2: Songs: Piano/Vocal/Chords Book

This collection gives pianists immediate access to songs that listeners actually know and love. Brickman's melodic gift means every song in this volume yields musicianship on both sides of the piano bench, and the piano/vocal/chords format lets singers and pianists collaborate without requiring separate instrumental accompaniment tracks.

These songs inhabit a musical middle ground between art song and pop ballad, with melodies that linger and harmonies that deepen on repeated listening. The piano writing ranges from intimate single-line accompaniment to fuller textures, but always remains in service of the song itself rather than seeking to impress through complexity.

Pianists seeking contemporary material that bridges popular song and classical training will find substantial rewards here. Singers and pianists performing together in recital, church, or casual settings will appreciate the integrated format that treats both parts as essential.

• Balance the melody line so it sings above the harmonic support; Brickman's songs depend on a clear, uncluttered vocal or melodic voice.
• Use the chord symbols as a guide for reharmonization or improvisation in the accompaniment, especially if you're performing with a vocalist who wants flexibility in phrasing.
• Lean into rubato in the introductions and transitions; these songs benefit from a conversational, unhurried approach rather than strict metronomic time.
• Adjust dynamics within phrases rather than holding them static; a single verse can move from intimate to building intensity depending on the harmonic progression.

Program individual songs as recital closers or themed pairings (group love songs together, or seasonal pieces like 'When It Snows' for winter concerts). The variety of moods across the 14 titles makes this an excellent source for selecting a single song when you need a contemporary piece that connects with general audiences.

• Balancing melody and accompaniment in a single instrument
• Reading and realizing chord symbols for harmonic independence
• Shaping long-lined melodies with intentional phrasing and rubato
• Coordinating vocal and piano parts in ensemble contexts
• Interpreting contemporary popular song for formal performance