Dennis Alexander has shaped music education for decades through his work with Alfred Music Publishing, beginning in 1986 and continuing to the present day. His catalog exceeds 400 compositions and recordings, establishing him as a defining voice in educational piano literature across all proficiency levels. Alexander's teaching career spanned 24 years at the University of Montana, where he directed the piano department and taught applied study, class piano, and pedagogy before relocating to California to teach at Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Northridge.
Beyond the classroom, Alexander maintains an active performance schedule as soloist, accompanist, and chamber musician. He has collaborated with internationally recognized artists, made his Carnegie Recital Hall debut in 1987, and toured throughout Asia conducting masterclasses and recitals. A former president of the Montana State Music Teachers Association, he remains a sought-after clinician at state and national conventions and has judged competitions internationally. Alexander currently resides in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he continues composing and performing.
Why we love this
Alexander's gift for writing accessible yet genuinely musical pieces shines throughout this waltz. Students encounter real compositional writing without the tedium of exercises, and teachers gain a piece that sounds sophisticated in performance while remaining manageable in preparation.
What to expect
This waltz captures the nostalgic beauty of the form, unfolding with melodic grace over a gently rocking accompaniment. The piece breathes with genuine emotion, offering students an opportunity to engage with the Romantic sensibility that makes the waltz enduringly appealing.
Who it's for
Early intermediate pianists ready to explore beyond simplified arrangements will find this waltz both rewarding and achievable. The three-page length suits students preparing recital material or building a performance portfolio without overwhelming study time.
How to get the most out of it
Bring out the singing quality of the right-hand melody by maintaining evenness in the accompaniment pattern. The left hand sets the waltz's character, so keep the three-beat pulse steady and unhurried.
Shape the phrases dynamically rather than playing at one dynamic level throughout. Let the melodic contour guide your crescendos and diminuendos, especially as the piece builds toward its climactic moments.
Pay attention to pedal changes aligned with harmonic shifts. Clean pedaling prevents the waltz from becoming muddy and allows the chords to resonate with clarity.
Observe any tempo indications and maintain consistent pacing. A waltz that rushes loses its lyrical character, so resist the urge to accelerate in passages that feel flowing.
How to use it
Include this in a student recital program as a solo piece or pair it with another work in a different style for effective contrast. Its moderate length and classical elegance make it well-suited to spring performances or showcases highlighting student progress.
Skills your students will build
Sustaining legato phrasing across the right hand while maintaining rhythmic precision
Coordinating independent left-hand accompaniment patterns with melodic material
Controlling dynamic expression to shape longer musical phrases
Understanding waltz rhythm and its historical performance conventions
Reading and interpreting expressive markings (dynamics, tempo, articulation)
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