Baker: Rising Star, Level 1

These eleven pieces make for a lively and fun supplement for students at the Early Elementary level studying in most common piano method series, as students build skills in playing hands together. Motivational to learn, this set also supplies imaginative repertoire (without lyrics). The contrast of repertoire is rich with dynamic contrasts and varied articulation (legato, staccato and accented). All the pieces are in 5-finger positions: C position ("The Spinning Top," "Bing-Bang-Boom!") D minor ("Spooks and Ghouls," "Ice and Snow"), E minor ("Rain Dance"). Other pieces included have common hand positions with neighboring thumbs playing B and Middle C, or Middle C and D. "The Great Pyramid" has open fifths in both hands with single-step shifts of position.