[Intermediate Level] Cool Piano Pieces You Can Play [Great for Recitals Too]

ToccatinaDimitri Kabalevsky

[Recommended for piano recitals] Toccatina ♫ Kabalevsky / Toccatina Op. 27 No. 12, Kabalevsky

This is a piece you can enjoy for its light, rhythmic performance.

Written in A minor, it features a captivating melody in the left hand, while the right hand provides a nimble accompaniment.

The device in which the top notes of the right-hand triads are arranged to chase the left-hand melody is also superb.

As the music unfolds like a small storm, the balance between tension and release is exquisitely expressed.

Included in the 1938 album “30 Children’s Pieces, Op.

27,” this work has long been cherished as a teaching material in music education.

It is perfect for those who have only recently begun studying the piano, as it cultivates both technique and expressiveness.

It is also ideal for recital performances, sure to leave a strong impression on the audience.

Le Tombeau de Couperin No. 4: RigaudonMaurice Ravel

Ravel: Le Tombeau de Couperin 4. Rigaudon pf. Saori Haji

Maurice Ravel, who lost many acquaintances in World War I, composed Le Tombeau de Couperin as a tribute to them.

The fourth piece, Rigaudon, is dedicated to the Gaudin brothers, Ravel’s childhood friends, and employs the rhythm of the lively dance “rigaudon,” which originates from the Provence region.

Its brisk character, which seems to express joyful memories of his childhood companions, feels all the more poignant once you know the background of the work.

Try performing it while imagining Ravel’s feelings.

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18 Characteristic Etudes, Op. 109 No. 13 “The Great Thunderstorm”Johann Burgmüller

[Piano Recital Recommendation] The Thunderstorm ♫ Burgmüller / Orage, Burgmüller

No.

13 “The Thunderstorm” from Johann Burgmüller’s set of piano studies 18 Characteristic Studies, Op.

109—by the composer best known for 25 Easy and Progressive Studies, Op.

100, which many piano students tackle—is a perfect piece for a striking recital performance.

With its powerful interplay of storm-like ferocity and calm, and the sense of release in the coda like the return of clear skies, this piece leaves a vivid impression on listeners.

For upper elementary school students, it’s a major opportunity to explore expressiveness and emotional nuance.

While refining technique, value the story of the music and aim for a performance that breathes with life.

Waltz No. 4 in F majorFrederic Chopin

Chopin Waltz No. 4, Op. 34-3 — Minute Waltz [Chopin Waltz No.4 Op.34-3]

Nicknamed the “Kitten Waltz” for its lively character, the Waltz No.

4 in F major, Op.

34-3 evokes a charming scene of kittens dashing about at play.

It’s a delightful piece often chosen for recitals and competitions, and is loved for its strong performance impact.

Play the opening arpeggios boldly and confidently, and render the sparkling right-hand filigree with a bright, clear tone.

For the left-hand accompaniment, aim for lightness and forward motion; take time to practice each hand separately with care.

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Carnival Jest from Vienna, Op. 26 No. 1 “Allegro”Robert Schumann

Schumann / Carnival Jest from Vienna, 1st movement: Allegro / Sachiko Suga

Robert Schumann’s “Carnival Jest from Vienna, Op.

26” is a popular piano work that is frequently featured in recitals and concerts.

In particular, the first piece, “Allegro,” with its innovative rhythms and surprising melodies, will be a fresh challenge for intermediate-level piano students.

If you perform this piece—which tests both the player’s technique and expressive range—you’re sure to draw the audience into Schumann’s world.

Why not take it on as a step toward improving both your technique and musical expression?

Fantasiestücke, Op. 12: No. 2 “Flying”Robert Schumann

42nd Prizewinner Commemorative Concert, Grade B [Gold Prize] Eiji Iwamuro / Schumann: “Fantasiestücke, Op. 12” – “Flight”

Robert Schumann’s “Fantasiestücke, Op.

12” No.

2, “Aufschwung” (Fliegende Gedanken), composed in 1837, is a guaranteed showpiece: the effortlessly racing melodies set against a flowing, lyrical middle section awaken passion through striking contrast.

From the dramatic opening in F minor to the expressive transitions into D-flat major and B-flat major, it offers a superb opportunity to broaden one’s expressive range.

It’s an ideal recital piece for children with piano experience who are ready to explore and release new emotions on stage.

Eight Pieces, Op. 84 No. 5: ImpromptuGabriel Fauré

Gabriel Fauré: Improvisation, Op. 84 No. 5 | Classical Piano Music (Carlo Balzaretti)

Gabriel Fauré, a gifted composer born of France.

One piece from his Eight Pieces, Op.

84, is a fascinating work that offers a glimpse into the evolution of his piano music.

This piece is notable for Fauré’s characteristic romantic atmosphere and its delicate, expressively lyrical melodies.

Its skillful use of arpeggios makes it an ideal opportunity for intermediate to advanced pianists to showcase their abilities.

The fact that it was composed in 1901 for the Paris Conservatoire’s graduation exam further enhances its appeal.

Highly recommended for those who wish to immerse themselves in Fauré’s musical world or make a memorable impression at a recital.