Mona Rejino has become one of the most trusted arrangers in music education by consistently delivering accessible yet musically sound versions of beloved standards. Her arrangements for piano students balance accessibility with artistic integrity, allowing young players to encounter repertoire they recognize and care about while building real technique.
Why we love this
Rejino's arrangement captures the sweep and drama of this iconic ballad without overwhelming the intermediate student. The writing respects the melody's emotional arc while keeping left-hand figuration manageable, so students can focus on shaping phrases and building dynamic control rather than wrestling with notation.
What to expect
A moment of theatrical grandeur brought into the practice room. The arrangement unfolds with lush harmonic support beneath a soaring melody, evoking intimacy and longing without requiring virtuosic hand spans or rapid passagework. It feels like playing a scene from the stage.
Who it's for
Intermediate pianists who want to tackle Broadway repertoire with sophistication but need arrangements pitched to their reading level. Students preparing for recitals, competitions, or school performances will find this accessible enough to learn quickly yet substantial enough to impress an audience.
How to get the most out of it
Shape the opening phrases with long, sustained lines; resist the urge to rush through the melody even in passages with repeated notes.
Pedal generously through the harmonic changes to support the romantic character, but lift clearly between sections to avoid muddiness.
Build gradually toward the emotional peak rather than jumping to full volume early; this arrangement rewards patience and structural awareness.
Let the student hear a recorded version first to internalize the phrasing and mood before diving into notes on the page.
How to use it
Feature this as a solo spotlight during a concert that mixes classical and popular repertoire, or pair it with other Broadway selections to create a themed set. Its two-page length and moderate difficulty make it ideal for mid-level recitals where you want to celebrate your students' growing musical maturity.
Skills your students will build
Sustaining legato lines across hand position shifts
Balancing melody and accompaniment voicings
Controlling dynamic arch and emotional phrasing over longer harmonic progressions
Pedal technique for harmonic color and resonance
Reading multi-staff notation with flowing accompaniment patterns
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