A vast number of beginner-friendly piano scores line the shelves of music stores and online shops.
“I want to start playing the piano, but where on earth should I begin?” Many people have this question and find it hard to take the first step.
In this article, we introduce recommended practice pieces for those who have just started learning the piano.
We’ve carefully selected easy, accessible pieces from a wide range of genres—perfect for complete beginners or those returning to the piano.
If you’re about to start practicing the piano, this is a must-read!
[Piano Etudes] Recommended for Beginners! A Curated Selection of Easy, Playable Pieces (1–10)
Merry Christmas, Mr. LawrenceSakamoto Ryuichi
[Piano] Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence / Ryuichi Sakamoto / with sheet music / Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence (Ending) / tried playing it / Piano / CANACANA
Merry Christmas, Mr.
Lawrence, one of Ryuichi Sakamoto’s signature pieces, captivates with its simple, poignant melody.
Composed as the film’s main theme, this romantic piece evokes winter snowscapes and a calm, reflective atmosphere.
Because it relies heavily on repeated motifs, it’s easy to remember and quite approachable for beginner pianists to perform with composure.
While the composition itself is simple, some arrangements add many notes or complex chords that can make it harder to play.
To start, choose an arrangement built from the melody line and minimal accompaniment, and enjoy performing it while fully appreciating the beauty of the piece.
When You Wish Upon a Star (Piano) — from the film “Pinocchio”
When You Wish Upon a Star, the theme song from Disney’s Pinocchio and one of the most beloved pieces in the Disney repertoire, features a simple melody and an elegant atmosphere.
It’s an approachable piece for both children and adults who are just beginning piano.
Because it involves few wide leaps or rapid finger movements, careful practice will yield a beautiful performance.
A variety of arrangements are published—including duet versions—so you can enjoy it in the style and format you prefer.
[With Sheet Music] Haru yo, Koi / Yumi Matsutoya (Piano Solo Beginner–Intermediate, For Beginners) Theme Song of the NHK Morning Drama Series 'Haru yo, Koi' [Piano Arrangement Sheet Music] / Easy / With Slow Performance
In addition to being used as the theme song for an NHK morning drama series, it’s featured as a graduation song at schools and even included in textbooks, making it a piece beloved across generations.
Its Japan-inspired melody is appealing and easy for beginners to play, and its wistful, gentle character pairs beautifully with the piano’s timbre.
Keep a relaxed tempo and add delicate expression as you perform.
Since a variety of arrangements are published, it’s recommended to start with an easier version and step up to intermediate and advanced versions as you progress!
Six Minuets No. 2, WoO 10 in G majorLudwig van Beethoven
L. V. Beethoven / Minuet in G major
This is a famous piece often used in TV commercials, taken from one of the piano arrangements of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Six Minuets, WoO 10, originally composed for orchestra in 1795.
Although it was written for orchestra, only the piano arrangement survives today.
It requires careful practice to align the right-hand chords and maintain precise rhythm, but the overall difficulty is not very high, making it a popular choice for beginner pianists as a study piece or recital selection.
By contrasting the smooth main theme with the light, step-like character of the middle section, you can achieve a performance with clear definition and charm.
Moon River, the classic song made famous by Audrey Hepburn’s performance in the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
With its romantic melody, this piece features a relaxed tempo and relatively simple structure, making it easy for beginners to enjoy its beauty while practicing.
Additionally, it has been arranged in a wide range of genres, including rock and jazz, so you’re not limited to the standard version—you can choose the arrangement you like! If you want a stylish feel, try a jazz-inspired arrangement; if you prefer an energetic performance, go for a rock style.
The Beatles’ masterpiece “Let It Be,” their final release while they were still active, features a comfortable, not-too-fast tempo and a catchy, familiar melody, making it an approachable piece of Western music even for beginner pianists.
Key points for performing this song include keeping a steady tempo, aligning both hands precisely, and adding clear dynamics to avoid sounding monotonous.
Once you’re comfortable with a simple arrangement, it’s also recommended to try a more challenging arrangement or add your own improvisation.
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