What Else Can I Play? Grade 2: Piano Book

A genuine celebration of what makes piano worth playing. The pieces span moods and genres so skillfully that students encounter reflective classical moments, swinging jazz rhythms, and recognizable showtune melodies in one book, each one crafted to feel achievable yet artistically complete.

Grade 2 pianists preparing for or following up on graded exams who need fresh, engaging repertoire beyond their method book. This collection works equally well for students taking lessons privately or in school programs who want variety without jumping difficulty levels.

• Apply the suggested fingerings consistently from first sight-reading onward. These patterns establish hand position efficiency that transfers to new pieces.
• Use the performance notes as teaching cues. Before assigning a piece, read the notes aloud with your student so they understand the specific technical or interpretive focus.
• Work through the tempo markings gradually. Start below the suggested tempo, secure the notes and phrasing, then build to performance speed.

Assign pieces strategically throughout the school year to complement whatever method book or curriculum your students are using. The stylistic variety makes it ideal for student recitals, where a student might open with a classical piece, move to a jazz selection, and close with something popular. Grade 2 students who have just passed an exam will especially benefit from the confidence boost these pieces provide.

• Reading and executing fingering patterns that prioritize hand position efficiency
• Interpreting tempo, dynamic, and articulation markings in diverse musical contexts
• Identifying and performing stylistic elements of classical, jazz, showtune, and popular music idioms
• Building independence between hands across a range of textures and rhythmic patterns
• Developing consistent practice routines for pieces with clear technical and musical goals