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

French Suite No. 2, BWV 813 – Minuet IIJ.S.Bach

J.S. Bach: French Suite No. 2 in C Minor, BWV 813: VI. Menuet II (BWV 813a)

This is an elegant dance from the French Suites, brimming with the beauty of Baroque music.

Composed around 1722, it masterfully fuses the solemnity of the key of C minor with the dignified rhythm characteristic of the minuet, allowing you to fully savor the polyphonic world Bach constructed.

Because the technical difficulty is relatively modest, it serves as an ideal piece for those wishing to venture into Baroque repertoire or learn the expressive use of ornamentation.

The work is structured in ABA form and reveals a wide range of character depending on the performer’s interpretation and phrasing choices.

You can also enjoy exploring tonal colors when playing the original harpsichord piece on the piano.

French Suite No. 5, BWV 816: SarabandeJ.S.Bach

Bach French Suite 5 Sarabande Emil Gilels

For those who want to take on classical music or try playing an elegant dance, how about a beautiful sarabande excerpted from a Baroque suite? The third movement of the French Suite No.

5 in G major, BWV 816, is one of the most approachable works among the six suites composed between 1722 and 1725.

Written in a gentle triple meter, it features an ornate right-hand melody interwoven beautifully with a left-hand accompaniment.

Although originally a dance of Spanish origin, it exemplifies the sarabande as a refined form that took shape in France and Germany during the Baroque era.

With its deep expressiveness and serene beauty, this movement is recommended for those looking to refine their musicality, as it calls for thoughtful interpretation of ornaments and careful phrasing.

French Suite No. 6, BWV 817: SarabandeJ.S.Bach

Bach French Suite No.6 “Sarabande” P. Barton, FEURICH 218 piano

This is a gem of a movement that infuses the strict form of a French dance with Bach’s characteristic spiritual depth.

Composed around 1722–1725, the piece is built on a stately triple-meter dance of Spanish origin, and its serene, introspective world is shaped by delicate ornamentation and flowing harmonic progressions.

Because it proceeds at a relaxed tempo, it is accessible even to those approaching Baroque music for the first time, allowing players to develop fundamentals while refining tone and expressive nuance.

Rather than dazzling technique, richly emotional expression is prized, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to practice with patience and care.

Polonaise in G minor (BWV Anh. 119)J.S.Bach

Bach, Polonaise in G minor, BWV Anh 119

This piece included in the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach is a brief yet captivating work in the form of the Polish folk dance, the Polonaise.

Its G minor tonality evokes a wistful atmosphere, and the dignified triple meter leaves a strong impression, conveying profound emotion despite its simplicity.

As one of the pieces composed for the notebook prepared for his wife in 1725, it reflects both domestic warmth and educational intent.

Structured in a typical two-part A-A-B-B form, it lasts about one minute, making it approachable not only for technical study but also for developing expressive skills.

It is an excellent choice for those who want to explore Baroque-style polyphony or learn a refined dance form.

Musette in D majorJ.S.Bach

[Grade B Baroque] Anonymous (attributed to J.S. Bach): Musette in D major, BWV Anh. 126 (2025 PTNA Competition Required Piece) pf. Tomoyo Umemura

This piece, born from the Notebook for Anna Magdalena Bach, where one can fully savor the charm of Baroque-era domestic music, is notable for its left-hand accompaniment pattern that imitates bagpipes.

Structured in ternary form, its bright and approachable melody moves between D major and A major, featuring rhythmically dance-like motion.

Compiled as part of the 1725 notebook and written with home music education in mind, it is not overly virtuosic and is easy to play.

It is especially recommended for those interested in Baroque music or for pianists looking to tackle a classical work.

The piece is also used in the anime Curious George, which likely explains why its familiarity continues to be loved today.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Yuzu “Eikou no Kakehashi” Music Video

Why not master an inspiring ballad? Released by Yuzu in 2004, this song was also beloved as NHK’s official theme for the Athens Olympics.

Its lyrics, which sing of dreams and the strength to overcome setbacks, make it a moving classic.

The tempo is relaxed, so you can play with composure, and the chord progression centers on classic patterns.

For the left hand, simply holding the root note at the start of each measure is enough.

The key to the right hand is to play the melody smoothly, as if singing.

Put your heart into the chorus and perform it powerfully.

Brave SoldierCornelius Gurlitt

Brave Soldier / Gurlitt — Wilder Soldat / C. Gurlitt [Recommended for Piano Recitals]

With a march-like, powerful rhythm that tickles a boy’s heart, this piece fills you with energy as you listen.

Featured on the album “Album for Children,” it captivates with its clear melody and the left hand’s steady, pulsing accompaniment.

Its resonant sound shines on stage, while offering ample joy in performance.

The right hand’s melody unfolds dramatically, firmly supported by the left hand’s rhythm—an ideal structure for practice.

Combining cool flair with sheer fun, this work is a perfect fit for boys learning the piano.