[Piano Recital] Carefully Selected Classical Pieces Recommended for Upper Elementary School Students

pirateRoger Grove

Pirate Roger Grove

This upbeat piece themed around a pirate adventure is a piano solo overflowing with power and dynamism.

Its story-rich development—depicting a ship’s departure, storms on the open sea, and the excitement of discovering treasure—is captivating, drawing listeners in from the first hearing.

While the original version also features piano, the solo edition adds fresh ornamentation and arrangements, using a three-page structure to paint the story in sound.

Released in November 2023, it’s a fun, adventure-sparking work that balances the joy of performing with the pleasure of listening.

It’s sure to shine at piano recitals and has become popular as a cool showpiece for boys.

Brilliant WaltzGlenda Austin

[Recommended for Piano Recitals] Brilliant Waltz ♫ Glenda Austin / Valse Brillante, Glenda Austin

Set to a brilliant and elegant waltz rhythm, this piece captivates listeners as jazz elements are skillfully interwoven.

While the flowing melodies are enhanced with modern arrangements, the refined character of the music draws out the performer’s expressive abilities.

Glenda Austin’s works are often adopted as teaching materials in piano studios and music education settings, and are frequently chosen for recitals and competitions.

This piece, which values the distinctive feel of the waltz while combining technical challenges with musical enjoyment, is an ideal choice for upper elementary-level learners.

“Fountain on a Rainy Day” from “Album for Children”William Gillock

Gillock: Fountain in the Rain — Pianist Yuki Kondo

“Fountain in the Rain,” included in William Gillock’s piano collection Album for the Young, is one of the many works he composed for children.

It is a beautiful piece that evokes a sparkling scene with an elegant fountain.

Gillock’s hallmark bright and cheerful melodies are sure to enhance the joy children feel when playing the piano.

Because there are several sections where the tempo changes dramatically, be mindful not only of dynamics but also of tempo contrasts, and aim for an expressive performance.

12 Variations on “Ah! vous dirai-je, Maman” (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

Based on an old French folk song, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart delicately crafted the Twelve Variations on “Ah! vous dirai-je, maman,” K.

265.

It consists of the memorable theme—better known as “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”—and twelve variations built on that motif.

Although it has now become a staple of piano recitals, the difficulty increases as the piece progresses, so playing it from start to finish requires considerable technique.

By the time you can confidently handle not only the simple early variations but also the more complex ones in the latter half, you will have developed a high level of proficiency.

Children’s Album, Volume 1: “Album of My Boyhood,” No. 5: EtudeAram Khachaturian

[Piano Recital Recommendation] Etude ♪ Khachaturian / Etude, Khachaturian

This piece, distinguished by its rhythmic, crisp staccato and unique melody, is a light and lively work written in C major with a 4/4 time signature.

The right hand’s staccato and the left hand’s chromatic chord movements maintain an exquisite balance, packing rich expression and vivid imagery into a brief performance of just 1 minute and 30 seconds.

The rhythms of Armenian traditional music and dance are skillfully incorporated, allowing for a performance brimming with lively dynamism.

Composed in 1926, the piece is well-suited for developing rhythmic precision and balance between both hands, and it is known as a popular choice for piano recitals.

It is recommended for pianists who have mastered basic techniques and wish to take on a performance rich in expressive nuance.

Wiener MarchCarl Czerny

“Wiener Marsch” Czerny [A piece that shines at piano recitals] Wiener Marsch / Carl Czerny / Piano / Piano / CANACANA

This Austrian piano march captivates with its clear rhythm and lively melody.

Evoking the elegance and sophistication of Vienna, it is a popular choice for piano recitals and concerts.

Although composed in the early 19th century, it continues to be cherished by many pianists and music lovers today, thanks to its dazzling expressive power that enthralls audiences.

It’s especially recommended for boys looking for a stylish, stage-worthy piece.

While it serves as solid technical practice, it also hones musical expression, making it a work that will significantly elevate the skills of anyone studying the piano.

Six Pieces for Children (Christmas Album), Op. 72: No. 2 in E-flat major, Andante sostenuto, MWV U 170Felix Mendelssohn

Mendelssohn: 6 Kinderstücke Op. 72 [also known as „Christmas Pieces Op.72] – No. 2 Andante sostenuto

Composed as a gift for children at Christmas in 1842, Mendelssohn’s piano miniature is enveloped in a gentle, tender atmosphere.

Written in E-flat major, it features a delicate touch and refined harmonic progressions, and despite its brief length of 42 measures, it conveys a profound musicality.

Set at a relaxed Andante sostenuto tempo, its warmly expressive melody has a soothing charm.

Among the six pieces in this collection, it is particularly approachable, making it an ideal work for those just beginning piano study or for listeners interested in Romantic-era music.