[Beginner] Start Here: Classic Practice Pieces Recommended for Adult Piano Beginners

Three Sonatas for Children, Op. 11 No. 1 “II. Theme and Variations” Op. 118a-2Robert Schumann

Robert Schumann, Kinder-Sonate in G minor, op. 118 n. 1 (1853) – II. Thema mit Variationen

Brimming with warmth, this charming theme-and-variations piece is an educational work Schumann composed with affection for his daughters.

It is the second movement extracted from the First of the Three Sonatas for Children, published in 1853, unfolding from a gentle theme into a range of contrasting expressions.

Because the variations broaden the scope of musical expression, it is recommended for those who wish to cultivate a rich sensibility.

It begins at a relaxed tempo and contains few technically challenging passages, making it approachable even for first-time learners eager to try classical piano.

While savoring the Schumann-esque poetic world, you can discover the beauty and depth of variation form in this single work.

Three Sonatas for Children, Op. 11, No. 2: “3. Evening Song” Op. 118b-3Robert Schumann

Piano Sonata in D Major, Op. 118, No. 2: III. Abendlied

A piece whose gentle character wraps the calm of the evening in piano melodies.

Composed in 1853 by Schumann as an educational work for his own children, it is technically approachable and well-suited for beginners.

Its leisurely tempo carries a soothing sense of comfort.

Ideal for cultivating delicate expressiveness, it’s recommended for those who value the beauty of tone.

Written with home performance in mind, its warmth makes it perfect for practicing in a relaxed atmosphere.

As an introductory piece that offers a glimpse of Schumann’s poetic sensibility, it’s well worth the challenge.

Scenes from Childhood, Op. 15, No. 5: An Important EventRobert Schumann

Jörg Demus plays Schumann Kinderszenen Op.15 – 6. Wichtige Begebenheit

Piece No.

5 from Scenes from Childhood is a miniature that charmingly depicts a child’s worldview.

It features a strong rhythmic drive and vivid harmonic progressions, with the bright resonance of A major leaving a strong impression.

The music expresses an “important event” as seen from a child’s perspective, and although it lasts only about a minute, it distills a child’s pure emotions and sense of wonder.

Composed in 1838 as a gift for Clara, this work is relatively approachable technically and is suitable even for beginners.

It is recommended for those who wish to develop their expressiveness or explore Robert Schumann’s musical world.

A lovely piece that can move listeners in a short span of time.

Alliance de David, Dance Collection No. 18, Non presto, C major — not fastRobert Schumann

Davidsbündlertänze, Op. 6, Heft II: No. 18, Nicht schnell

The serene miniature that closes Davidsbündlertänze invites listeners into the world overflowing with Robert Schumann’s poetic sensibility.

True to the indication “Not fast,” its gently flowing melody and tender harmonies convey a calming warmth.

Among the pieces first published in January 1838, this one is particularly imbued with an introspective mood, revealing Schumann’s delicate sensitivity.

Ending peacefully, it is approachable for beginner-level piano students and offers an accessible taste of Romantic expressiveness.

Performed at a relaxed tempo, it allows one to savor Schumann’s distinctive poetic expression.

Morning Songs No. 1: In a calm tempoRobert Schumann

Jörg Demus plays Schumann Morning Songs Op.133 – No.1

Beginning at a gentle tempo, this piece opens the piano solo collection Songs of the Morning, composed by Robert Schumann in October 1853, near the end of his life.

It exudes a serene, introspective atmosphere, characterized by a chorale-like theme and a transparent texture.

Though dissonances are interwoven, the warm resonance of D major deeply touches the heart.

In the final section, the main melody appears as a stretto, creating depth and tension.

The difficulty level is manageable even for beginners, making it ideal for those who wish to express the quiet and hope of morning.

Why not play it at a relaxed pace, savoring Schumann’s poetic world and rich emotional expression?

Sonatina No. 12, Movement IMuzio Clementi

Sonatina No. 12 Sheet Music, Op. 36-6, First Movement – Sheet Music by M. Clementi

Beginning with elegant and flamboyant arpeggios, this piece brims with the refinement and vitality of the Classical era.

The smoothly spun right-hand melody interwoven with the left hand’s graceful accompaniment forms a beautiful line filled with the brightness and hope reminiscent of spring’s arrival.

This work is included in Muzio Clementi’s 1797 collection Sonatinas Op.

36; Clementi is also known as the author of Gradus ad Parnassum.

Powerful phrases and delicate expression are harmoniously balanced, making it a popular choice for piano competitions and recitals.

With its four richly expressive sections that allow for a wide range of emotions, it is an ideal piece for players who wish to refine their technique while deepening their musicality.

A Doll’s Dream and AwakeningTheodor Oesten

Dolly’s Dreaming and Awakening / The bath is ready ♪ / Dolly’s Dreaming and Awakening / Piano / piano / CANACANA

Allow us to introduce a delicate and beautiful miniature in which the opulence of Romanticism blends with childlike innocence.

Composed by the French pianist Théodore Oesten, this piece gracefully portrays a doll awakening from sleep and beginning to dance.

Structured in three sections, it opens with a gentle lullaby, passes through a dreamy melody, and unfolds into a charming dance.

Published in 1862, the work is also widely known in Japan as the melody signaling that water has finished filling in Noritz-brand water heaters.

Its tender melody and rich variety of moods are captivating, offering a full taste of the piano’s expressive range.

It is recommended for those seeking a brilliant sound and approachable tunes, as well as for listeners who enjoy music that vividly conjures scenes before the eyes.