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[Piano Etudes] Recommended for Beginners! A Curated Selection of Easy, Playable Pieces

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 and Playable Pieces (121–130)

springSamuel Maykapar

Zen-On Piano Solo “Spring” from Mikhaïl Maikapar: Collection of Piano Pieces, Zen-On Music Company Ltd.
springSamuel Maykapar

Spring by Samuil Maykapar, a Ukrainian-born composer and pianist, is often selected for recitals and as a required piece in competitions.

It is a gently paced work that evokes the calm arrival of spring.

The middle section takes on a somewhat livelier character, making it a piece that allows for contrast even within a short span.

Aim to play smoothly with legato to preserve a courtly elegance, keep the accompaniment as soft as possible, and strive for a tender tone throughout.

Buzz buzz buzzBohemia min’yo

“Buzz, Buzz, Buzz,” a Bohemian folk song, is a familiar practice and recital piece for piano beginners—especially children who have just started learning.

Regardless of musical background, almost everyone knows this melody.

Because it’s simple and stays within a single octave, it’s easy even for beginners to play.

Even if you haven’t fully learned the note names, you can comfortably master it by practicing while following the sounds by ear or by playing it repeatedly while singing.

If you perform it at a recital, adding a duet accompaniment will make it sound even more impressive.

Dance and SongNakata Yoshinao

[Recommended Piano Recital Piece] A Dance and Song ♫ Yoshinao Nakada
Dance and SongNakata Yoshinao

This is a captivating solo piano piece woven from two elements: “Dance” and “Song.” Rhythmic, Japanese-style melodies blend beautifully with a gentle singing quality, creating an evocative work that conjures scenes of a summer night.

The invigorating “Dance” section, brimming with mixed meter in 5/8 and syncopation, alternates with the “Song” section, sung over graceful harmonies, holding the listener’s heart throughout.

It’s recommended for those seeking a family-friendly recital piece or wishing to deepen rhythm study while valuing a Japanese aesthetic.

With thoughtful use of staccato and pedaling, performers can further broaden expressive range, making it a rewarding work to learn.

A Whole New WorldAlan Menken

A Whole New World (Piano) – from the film “Aladdin”
A Whole New WorldAlan Menken

This song is one of the most popular in the Disney repertoire.

It’s a favorite not only as a piano practice piece but also as a choice for choral competitions.

Bring out its dramatic appeal while remembering it’s a love song.

The key is not to overdo the climax at the end.

[Piano Etudes] Recommended for Beginners! A Curated Selection of Easy, Playable Pieces (131–140)

Spinning SongAlbert Ellmenreich

Spinning Song / Elmenreich [Sample Performance]
Spinning SongAlbert Ellmenreich

It’s a piece you’ll almost always hear at piano recitals.

Start by slowly mastering each hand separately, then gradually increase the tempo.

It’s a bright, refreshing piece with a lively tempo that makes you feel as if you’re spinning thread.

chopsticksArthur de Lulli

Chopsticks (from Sparkling Piano: Famous Piano Duets for Children, Volume 1) – Zen-On Music Company
chopsticksArthur de Lulli

Composed by Lully and arranged for piano four hands.

It is included in Volume 1 of “Masterpieces of Piano Duets for Children.” It is easier to play than it sounds when listening, yet it is a very impressive piece.

It should be possible to play even not long after beginning lessons.

The Future Projection IIDREAMS COME TRUE

Zen-On Piano Solo “Mirai Yosouzu II” – Zen-On, Zen-On Piano Piece [Popular] (PPP-010)
The Future Projection IIDREAMS COME TRUE

This is a love ballad that sings of the joy and tenderness of bringing to life the exciting future lovers have dreamed of.

I wonder how many people in Japan started blinking their brake lights five times when parting from their partners because of this song…