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

Amazing Gracesanbika

Amazing Grace – Amazing Grace 👼🪽

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Amazing Grace is a timeless classic loved around the world and covered by countless singers.

In the United States, it’s so beloved that it’s often called a “second national anthem.” Beyond its lyrics praising God, isn’t its greatest appeal the beautiful, soul-stirring melody? Its profoundly sublime beauty pairs wonderfully with the piano’s delicate tones, making it a frequent choice for recitals and concerts.

While many different arrangements have been published, even a simple arrangement is enough to fully appreciate the piece’s original beauty.

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Eight Pieces, Op. 84: No. 3, FugueGabriel Fauré

Fauré: Fugue in A minor; Vladimir Valjarevic

Despite employing the fugue form, this piece possesses a flowing beauty and delicate depth.

Composed in 1869, it captivates with a tightly interwoven four-voice texture.

The clarity of the subject and the interplay among the voices create the impression of watching an elegant social dance.

The modulation from A minor to A major is striking, and the refined grace characteristic of French music shines through.

At its premiere in April 1903 by Ricardo Viñes, its subtle expressivity was highly praised.

This work is recommended for those who wish to become acquainted with traditional classical forms or who are captivated by the elegance of French music.

Sonatina No. 1, Movement I, Op. 20-1Friedrich Kuhlau

Sonatina No. 1, 1st Movement, Op. 20-1 / Kuhlau / Piano / Sonatina No. 1 in C major, Op. 20-1 / Kuhlau / Piano / CANACANA

This is a C-major piece distinguished by a clear structure and an approachable melody.

Marked by a lively tempo and lucid melodic lines, it was published in Leipzig in 1819 and carries a sparkling, uplifting character.

In the first movement, a bright and vigorous main theme is woven into sonata form and unfolds alongside smooth, lyrical melodies.

Each phrase conveys a hopeful expression, and the rhythmic vitality—suggestive of a child’s growth—leaves a strong impression.

Performing with a clear tone and mindful, moderate dynamic contrasts enables richer expressivity.

This piece is recommended for those who want to fully savor the charm of Classical-era music or who enjoy bright, brilliant musical styles.

Third movement from Sonatina, Op. 36 No. 1Muzio Clementi

M. Clementi / Sonatina Op. 36 No. 1, Movement III, Performance: Kyoko Nakagawa

Movement No.

3, which begins with a light touch and features a bright, vibrant melody, is a refined piece that adds brilliance to any piano recital.

Technically approachable for practice and rich in opportunities for lively expression, it has been loved by many pianists since its publication in 1797.

Its logical flow—from exposition to development and recapitulation—also makes it suitable for learning the basic forms of classical music.

It is a work I highly recommend to those aiming for a brisk, energetic performance.

By improving finger independence and mastering fast passages, you will truly experience the joy of playing.

Sonatina in F major, First MovementAnton Diabelli

Sonatina in F major, Op. 168 No. 1, 1st movement / A. Diabelli

Its graceful yet approachable melody and the bright, open resonance unique to F major are deeply appealing.

Perfect as an introduction to classical music, this piece offers a wonderful way to learn the fundamentals of the Classical style.

The warm tone colors and flowing, elegant lines leave a strong impression, while the gentle sonority created by the Alberti-bass accompaniment is soothing and healing to the listener.

Published in Vienna in 1839, the work is infused with a heartwarming character free of stiffness, all while maintaining a solid musical structure within its gentle atmosphere.

It is recommended for those who wish to perform at a piano recital or simply savor the beauty of classical music.

12 Variations on “Ah! vous dirai-je, Maman,” K. 265 (“Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” Variations)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star Variations / Mozart / Variations on “Ah, vous dirai-je, Maman” K.265 / Mozart / Piano / CANACANA

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart composed Twelve Variations on the French Song “Ah! vous dirai-je, maman,” K.

265, based on a love song that was popular in France at the time.

Better known as the “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” Variations and a big favorite at piano recitals, this piece is actually more difficult than you might expect! While the familiar theme may be easy to play lightly, the variations become increasingly challenging as the piece progresses, so even intermediate players will find sections that require considerable practice to master.

However, it’s also a work that lets you feel your own growth as you clear each hurdle one by one.

Give it a proactive try!

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Invention No. 8, BWV 779J.S.Bach

Bach / Invention No. 8 in F major (J. S. Bach: Two-Part Invention No. 8 in F Major, BWV 779)

This piece in F major, set in 3/4 time, begins with ascending broken chords brimming with the lively energy of a fanfare and exudes a bright, spirited atmosphere.

The distinctive rhythm created by the interplay of upper and lower voices, chasing each other with a one-measure delay, is pleasing and makes the listener’s heart dance.

Although composed for educational purposes, the work’s musical appeal captivates audiences.

The left-hand passages using the 3rd, 4th, and 5th fingers are somewhat challenging, but with practice, it’s a wonderful piece that allows you to feel tangible improvement in two-hand technique.

With its bright, festive character and a well-balanced technical challenge, it’s an ideal choice for a recital.