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Trick-or-Treat Gems: Piano Collection

$7.95 USD
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Trick-or-Treat Gems Cover Image

Trick-or-Treat Gems: Piano Collection

An Artistic Early Intermediate/Intermediate Collection for Piano Solo

by Kristeen Polhamus

Level: Early Intermediate / Intermediate

Item: 98-FJH2394

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Description
Embrace the enchanting spirit of the Halloween season with this captivating collection of intermediate piano solos, designed to evoke the thrill and mystery of All Hallows' Eve. Each piece is infused with fun, exciting sounds that challenge pianists to explore staccato techniques, minor chords, and mystical melodies. With titles like "Jolly Jack O'Lantern" and "Witches' Hopscotch," students will find themselves immersed in a world of intriguing Halloween music that requires both creative expression and solid technical skills. The compositions serve as "Trick or Treat Gems," encouraging pianists to evolve in their artistry, delve into imaginative interpretations, and fully enjoy the rich tapestry of sounds associated with this festive season. This collection features a delightful array of pieces that capture the essence of Halloween, including "Haunted Pirates Cove," where eerie harmonies invite a sense of adventure, and "Ring Around the Ghosties," which combines playful rhythms with spooky motifs. Other highlights include the whimsical "Skeleton's Tap Dance" and the hauntingly beautiful "Midnight Hour." Each solo offers unique opportunities for expression, inviting students to experiment with dynamics and phrasing while honing their skills. Whether performed at a Halloween recital or simply enjoyed during practice, this collection is sure to inspire and entertain, making it a must-have for any intermediate pianist looking to celebrate the magic of the Halloween season!

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Additional Details
Series: Composers in Focus
Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.
ISBN10: 1-61928-544-4
ISBN13: 978-1-61928-544-6
UPC: 241444595480
SKU: 98-FJH2394
Instrumentation: Piano

More about this title

About the Composer: Kristeen Polhamus

Kristeen Polhamus is a composer dedicated to creating accessible, engaging music for young pianists. Her work consistently balances technical growth with genuine musical enjoyment, and she has built a reputation for writing pieces that students actually want to practice.

Why we love this

Polhamus understands that intermediate pianists need repertoire with real character and legitimate musical substance. These pieces deliver spooky atmosphere without resorting to cheapness or relying on novelty alone; the staccato passages and minor key writing are genuinely satisfying to play and deserve serious musicianship.

What to expect

These pieces embrace Halloween's dual nature: the playfulness of costumes and candy mixed with real mystery and shadow. You'll find moments of genuine spookiness alongside whimsy, creating music that captures the season's excitement rather than its clichés.

Who it's for

Intermediate pianists ready to tackle pieces with real personality and technical demands beyond basic hand position work. Students who respond well to thematic writing and specific character pieces will find each solo in this collection offers genuine challenges and rewards.

How to get the most out of it

  • Experiment with the dynamic contrasts between verses and the spookier sections. The difference between playful and eerie is often just about restraint and articulation rather than tempo changes.
  • Work through the staccato passages slowly, focusing on clean releases. These moments define the character of individual pieces, so sloppy articulation undermines everything else you're building.
  • Listen for opportunities to lean into the minor harmonies without making everything sound mournful. There's brightness available even in these darker voicings if you shape your phrasing intentionally.

How to use it

Feature individual pieces in a Halloween recital or autumn concert, or select contrasting pieces to showcase different aspects of the collection. These work equally well as standalone recital closers or as part of a thematic program exploring seasonal music and character pieces.

Skills your students will build

  • Staccato articulation in both hands
  • Minor key harmonic function and voice leading
  • Dynamic control and contrast
  • Character interpretation through phrasing and tempo flexibility
  • Rhythmic precision in playful, syncopated passages

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