Martha Mier

Elementary level hymns appropriate for a late first year student who can read in middle C position. I like this book as a supplement. The notes themselves are easy - one-line melodies with no hands together, but there are just enough challenging elements to make it interesting. Key signatures are C, G, and F. Rhythms include eighth notes and dotted quarters - but in a context of a familiar tune so that familiarity aids understanding. Also, the hand positions are either middle C or LH in show more middle C while RH is in middle D. I appreciate this as I am very tired of transfer students who have studied piano for 2-3 years and still look at middle D on the staff and call it a "2." The songs are classic enough that most students will recognize them.
Amazing Grace
The B-I-B-L-E
Do, Lord
For the Beauty of the Earth
I Have Decided to Follow Jesus
I Have the Joy
Jesus Loves Me
This Little Light of Mine show less

These late elementary to early intermediate arrangements provide a good opportunity to discuss jazz rhythms as well as melodic variations. After playing a few of these, it might be fun for a student to "jazzify" one of their previously learned pieces by improvising with the jazz elements they discover here. Key signatures include C, G, F. Rhythms include eighths and dotted quarters, eighth-note triplets, syncopations, and changing time signatures. Notes range from low C to high C (two ledger show more lines). show less