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

For beginner pianists, choosing practice pieces can be a real source of anxiety.

This is especially true if you’re starting to learn on your own as an adult—you may often wonder what pieces to choose to keep practice enjoyable and progressing smoothly.

When learning piano independently, there are two main approaches: focusing intensively on a limited selection of pieces, or practicing a balanced set of pieces that include a variety of technical elements while learning the basics of piano technique and music reading from the ground up.

In this article, we’ll introduce recommended practice pieces for those who prefer the latter approach and also want to build a solid foundation.

We’ve selected a wide range of pieces, from classical to popular, so feel free to start with whichever ones spark your interest.

[Beginner] Start with these! Classic practice pieces recommended for adult piano beginners (101–110)

Sonatine No. 8, Movement IMuzio Clementi

Sonatina Album, Volume 1: No. 8, 1st Movement — Clementi, Op. 36 No. 2
Sonatine No. 8, Movement IMuzio Clementi

If you’re looking for a piano piece with rich resonance and a light, graceful melody, I would recommend this work.

Written in the bright key of G major, it beautifully balances a brilliant, dynamic melody with a robust, supportive accompaniment.

Though published in 1797 as an educational piece, it possesses ample artistry to stand as a concert work.

A highlight is the interplay between the elegant first theme—rich in stepwise motion—and the bustling, restless second theme.

Combining technical interest with musical allure, this piece is perfect for those who want to showcase the piano’s expressive range or who favor a dazzling, powerful character.

Sonatina No. 9, First MovementMuzio Clementi

Sonatine No. 9, 1st Movement / Clementi / Piano / Sonatina Op. 36 No. 3 / Clementi / CANACANA
Sonatina No. 9, First MovementMuzio Clementi

For those seeking classical music with a bright, dazzling, and passionate resonance, I’d like to introduce a lively piece by Muzio Clementi.

Published in 1797, this work begins with forceful, energetic phrases and unfolds into light, flowing scale patterns.

Set at an Allegro (fast) tempo, it demands nimble fingerwork and dynamic expressiveness.

The well-balanced interplay of harmonious, beautiful chords and crisp staccato (bouncing tones) creates a splendid sense of brilliance and elegance.

With its clear, approachable melody, this piece is highly recommended for anyone who wants to fully savor the expressive range of the piano or add a vibrant, spirited work to their repertoire.

Sonatina No. 10, First MovementMuzio Clementi

Clementi: No. 4 (Sonatina Album No. 10), 1st Movement, pf. Naotsugu Shimamura
Sonatina No. 10, First MovementMuzio Clementi

A lively, three-part work brimming with energy, it unfolds with a captivating contrast between an arresting first theme that begins with repeated notes in the bass and a light, staccato-driven second theme.

Since its first publication in 1797, this piece has remained a beloved staple of the piano student’s repertoire.

Though it lasts only about two and a half minutes, it breathes with brilliance and richly expressive melody.

The work is ideal for developing expressiveness, featuring elements such as contrasts between legato and staccato and dynamic variation.

With its bright, powerful character and approachable melodies, it is a recommended piece for those who want to experience dazzling expression or discover new charms of the piano.

Is this what love feels like?Al Hoffman/Mack David

From Disney's Cinderella: 'So This Is Love' Easy Piano (includes slow version) Level ★★★☆☆ Beginner–Intermediate
Is this what love feels like?Al Hoffman/Mack David

It’s a magical piece of music that colors a scene from a Disney animated film.

Set to an elegant waltz melody, it beautifully portrays the pure emotions of the protagonist.

The first encounter with love at a palace ball—the flutter, the confusion, the joy—is expressed through a gentle, dreamlike tune that resonates deeply with listeners.

It’s also used in shows at Disneyland and DisneySea, and is cherished by many as a memorable song.

The melody is simple and stays within a single octave, making it easy for those just starting to learn notes to try.

It’s a recommended piece for anyone who wants to improve their performance skills while having fun.

Beauty and the BeastAlan Menken

Disney “Beauty and the Beast” Easy Piano
Beauty and the BeastAlan Menken

It is the graceful waltz featured in an iconic scene from a Disney animated film.

The melody is gentle, evoking a romantic atmosphere.

The vocal range isn’t too wide, and the repeated key changes create a dramatic progression.

First sung by Mrs.

Potts in the 1991 animated film, it accompanies a pivotal moment in which the protagonists begin to truly connect.

From an unexpected encounter to growing mutual understanding, their journey is expressed through a tender melody.

With its simple melodic line and narrow range, it’s perfect for those who have just learned solfège.

Recommended for anyone who wants to play a gentle tune with heartfelt expression.

[Beginner] Start Here: Classic Practice Pieces Recommended for Adult Piano Beginners (111–120)

AllegrettoAnton Diabelli

“Famous Piano Pieces for Grade 4, Volume 2” Diabelli / Allegretto, Op. 125 No. 10
AllegrettoAnton Diabelli

Allegretto is a piece frequently performed at piano recitals.

It’s a masterpiece by Anton Diabelli and is known as one of his representative works alongside “Dance of the Dwarfs.” The key aspect of this piece is the dynamic contrast.

It also requires a clear distinction between staccato and slur, making it good practice for beginners in both expression and technique.

Adding the pedal will give the performance more definition, so once you’re comfortable playing it, be sure to try practicing with the pedal.

Burgmüller 25 Études Op. 100 No. 11 “The Wagtail”Johann Burgmüller

11. Wagtail / Burgmüller 25 Etudes - Burgmüller: 25 No.11 La Bergeronnette - Classical Piano - CANACANA
Burgmüller 25 Études Op. 100 No. 11 “The Wagtail”Johann Burgmüller

This piece in 2/4 time is characterized by a light, charming melody reminiscent of a little bird.

A rhythmic motif of “ta-ta-tan,” effectively using staccato and sixteenth notes, vividly evokes birdsong and adorable movements.

Published in Paris in 1851, the work lasts only about 30 seconds, yet captivates with a beautiful melody woven from right-hand scales and left-hand accompaniment.

By focusing on supple wrist motion and precise fingertip control, you can bring out the piece’s elegance even more.

Even beginners will find it enjoyable to tackle thanks to its lively rhythm and friendly, accessible melody.