Dedicated to our grandchildren, present and future!
- PIANO LEVEL
ELEMENTARY
Print ISBN: 978-1-5400-8894-9
ePub ISBN: 978-1-70510-465-1
Kindle ISBN: 978-1-70510-466-8
For all works contained herein:
Unauthorized copying, arranging, adapting, recording, Internet posting, public performance,
or other distribution of music in this publication is an infringement of copyright.
Infringers are liable under the law.
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PREFACE
To the Teacher
Most of these songs were written for our grandchildren when they were toddlers. Designed for singing, I later arranged them to be played at the piano - some as solos, others as duets. They are now assembled and presented to you by difficulty level, from early beginner to late elementary.
To the Student
I hope you will enjoy playing these songs. They were originally written for my grandchildren to celebrate the silly things in life, as well as to explore important topics that need to be talked about - like being kind and patient with one another. The duet parts were written for your teacher, parent (or grandparent!), or older brother or sister to join you in music making.
Contents
PERFORMANCE NOTES
The Pumpkin Polka
The black keys provide every note you need to make a fun melody. After you have learned the song as written, try making up your own tune as your duet partner plays the accompaniment.
Alligator Brooks
This song explores the very cool sound that can be achieved by slipping one black key into the mix. This "bluesy" sound is part of many songs in the blues, jazz, and rock traditions. Alligator Brooks is a gator that knows how to get his groove on!
Princess Waltz
Three black keys and three white keys, when paired together, create a magical musical scale befitting a princess. Try playing it up high on the piano, without accompaniment, holding down the damper pedal continuously. This will create a mysteriously beautiful effect. Ellie, this one is for you!
The Goldfish Song
Goldfish crackers are fun to eat. Everybody knows that! So, why not have a song about it? Keep the tempo steady and, once you can play it, sing along!
Scooter Adventure
A scooter is a great way for a kid to get around. This energetic piece reflects the excitement of exploring the neighborhood on a perfect sun-filled day. Just don't forget your helmet!
Be Kind to Your Sister
Being kind is a choice that we make. All of us have bad days, and sometimes we're just selfish. I hope that you will always try to think about how the other person might feel, and how you would like to be treated.
Race Cars
Our grandson sure loves his toy cars. He collects them in every color, and they all have a special name. This song, with its boogie-style accompaniment, was written to celebrate the fun he has making up stories about this make-believe world of race cars.
The PB & J Song
What is it about peanut butter and jelly? It's a combination that is pretty tasty, for sure. In this song, the left hand plays a bass line, the kind of part a bass player plays in a band. Try "swinging" the eighth notes in the right hand melody - that is, make them a little "lazy," for a more laid-back feel that is common in jazz.
Please Be Patient
Learning to be patient is one of the most difficult things to master, and most of us spend our entire life trying to be better at it! Sometimes, we just "want what we want," and we want it now. This waltz (a dance with three beats per measure) should be played in a relaxed tempo.
The Chick Filet Song
The local chicken sandwich joint has a great indoor playground. The grandkids have the time of their life on our frequent outings. This song was specifically requested (commissioned, I guess you could say) by our grandson, Charlie.
The Pumpkin Polka
By Phillip Keveren
Copyright 2020 by HAL LEONARD LLC
International Copyright Secured All Rights Reserved
Alligator Brooks
By Phillip Keveren
Copyright 2020 by HAL LEONARD LLC
International Copyright Secured All Rights Reserved
Princess Waltz
By Phillip Keveren
Copyright 2020 by HAL LEONARD LLC
International Copyright Secured All Rights Reserved
The Goldfish Song
By Phillip Keveren
Copyright 2020 by HAL LEONARD LLC
International Copyright Secured All Rights Reserved
Scooter Adventure
By Phillip Keveren
Copyright 2020 by HAL LEONARD LLC
International Copyright Secured All Rights Reserved
Be Kind To Your Sister
By Phillip Keveren