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

Burgmüller 25 Progressive Pieces Op. 100 No. 1: InnocenceJohann Burgmüller

Burgmüller: 25 Etudes, No. 1 La Candeur – Classical Piano – CANACANA

Once you’ve reached the stage where you can read music to some extent and your fingers have strengthened, many piano learners turn to “25 Progressive Pieces, Op.

100” by the German composer Johann Burgmüller.

Among these 25 pieces are many favorites for recitals, and “La candeur” (also known as “Innocence”), being the first piece, is especially well known as one that everyone practices.

While carefully controlling the descending melody so it doesn’t stumble, enjoy the bright and refreshing character of this piece that opens the collection.

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Piano Sonata No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 27 No. 2 “Moonlight,” I. AllegrettoLudwig van Beethoven

Moonlight Sonata 1st Movement Piano Sonata / Beethoven / Moonlight Sonata (1st Movement) / Classic Piano / Classical / CANACANA

Ludwig van Beethoven’s masterpiece, Piano Sonata No.

14 in C-sharp minor, Op.

27 No.

2 “Moonlight,” opens with an achingly beautiful melody suffused with poignancy.

The first movement, marked by its gently repeating triplets, is known as a piece approachable even for beginner pianists.

Although the score is easy to read and the writing falls naturally under the hands, sustaining an even, accurate pulse while allowing the melody line to sing demands strong concentration and acute awareness in the fingertips.

Listen closely to the harmonic changes and immerse yourself in the piece’s world as you perform.

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Minuet in G major, BWV Anh. 114Christian Petzold

J.S. Bach (C. Petzold): Minuet in G major, BWV Anh. 114

It is a famous classical piece that has been included in many beginner piano scores and is often practiced by anyone learning the piano.

For a long time it was attributed to J.S.

Bach and included in the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach, but recent research has revealed that it is actually a work by the contemporary composer Christian Petzold.

It remains a mystery why J.S.

Bach falsely presented it as his own and included it in his collection.

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Invention No. 1 in C major, BWV 772J.S.Bach

Bach / Invention No. 1 in C major (J. S. Bach: Two-Part Invention No. 1 in C major, BWV 772)

Inventions, composed by Johann Sebastian Bach, a representative composer of the Baroque era, are among the indispensable works for tackling Baroque repertoire in piano study.

Among them, No.

1 is often used on television and in commercials, so many people may have heard it without realizing it is by Bach.

Compiled between 1720 and 1723, this collection is an educational work written for Bach’s eldest son.

It is perfectly suited for beginners, as it teaches the characteristics of polyphonic music—constructed from overlapping voices—such as the left hand chasing the right hand’s theme, or the theme appearing in inversion.

New Cinema Paradiso ‘Love Theme’Ennio Morricone

Love Theme (Nuovo Cinema Paradiso) [with sheet music] Ennio Morricone

This is a renowned piece that originated from an Italian film released in 1988.

Deeply intertwined with the film’s story, the song is used effectively in emotional scenes such as the protagonist’s first love, parting, and reunion.

Characterized by its beautiful melody and profound lyrics, it resonates with many listeners.

Scored primarily for strings and piano, its relaxed tempo is striking, and it shines as a piece to practice on the piano.

Transcending the realm of film music, it has been covered by various artists and is recommended for fans of classical and easy listening alike.

It’s a piece I especially encourage those who want to experience the moving fusion of film and music to play.

MistyErroll Garner

Misty

Misty – Erroll Garner | Piano Tutorial (EASY) | WITH Music Sheet | JCMS

Inspired by a rainbow and mist seen from an airplane window, Erroll Garner is said to have improvised the masterpiece “Misty.” Its romantic, slightly wistful melody ranks among the most popular jazz standards and is widely cherished as a beautiful ballad.

First included on the 1954 album “Contrasts,” it continued to captivate audiences across generations, notably featuring memorably in the 1971 film “Play Misty for Me.” With its relaxed tempo, it’s easy for the fingers to follow, allowing players to savor the resonance of the chords—one of the piece’s great attractions.

Start by carefully aligning the simple melody with the left-hand accompaniment rhythm, and try to evoke a dreamlike, mist-shrouded atmosphere.

dogwood (flowering dogwood)Hitoto Yo

24. Hanamizuki [Piano Tutorial Video]

A signature song by Yo Hitoto, released in February 2004.

Inspired by the September 11 attacks in the United States, the piece features lyrics that express a wish for peace and feelings for a loved one.

Set to a magnificent sound centered on piano and strings, Yo Hitoto’s distinctive voice resonates throughout.

It was used as the theme song for Nippon TV’s “Tuesday Suspense Theater” and in commercials for the Japan Racing Association, and it became beloved by many.

Its deep emotional expression and poetic lyrics speak to listeners’ hearts and offer encouragement.

The song employs the Canon chord progression, making the bass movement easy to follow and play.

It’s a bright, singable classic and a great choice as a first piano practice piece.