As both piano teachers and players, we can often get stuck in a rut, using the same materials, the same pieces, and the same books and anthologies on repeat. In some ways, it’s understandable. Music isn’t cheap and space is limited. We’ve all become more conscious of the items we want to add to our music shelves, and justifiably so. That said, I’m sure that the newly-published The Willis Student Recital Collection will be one such book which will firmly find a valued place.
The volume brings together an exclusive collection of 40 works by a range of composers including familiar names such as Edna Mae Burnam, John Thompson, William Gillock, Naoko Ikeda, and Jason Sifford. The collection has been curated and the music edited by Andrew Eales of Pianodao, and seeks to present a rich and diverse selection of performance repertoire for pianists at Grades 1-6 level.
This substantial volume is divided into three sections, each covering two grades. The rich tapestry of repertoire presented in each section is prefaced by a useful introduction, and whilst these are not necessarily intended to be performance notes, they offer a broad overview of the music included.
Andrew has, I know, had a wonderful time exploring the rich archives of The Willis Music Company catalogue, and in that, he has brought to the fore a huge range of pieces in varied musical styles and genres, which will inspire generations to come.
One of the things which I particularly liked about The Willis Student Recital Collection, is that each piece has a clear, albeit unwritten, learning objective. I’m sometimes critical of this thing we call the ‘educational market’, and indeed, these pieces are to be enjoyed as they are, but it’s clear from this volume that the music has been composed with learners in mind. This is echoed in the introductions which preface each section.
In a book of 40 pieces, it seems unfair to single out individual works and composers. There are no poor relations here, just a beautiful selection of pieces which will accompany pianists of all ages on their musical journey.
I’m going to give a special mention to some of my favourites: Carolyn Miller’s ‘The Goldfish Pool’; Edna Mae Burnam’s ‘The Singing Mermaid’; Melody Bober’s ‘The Falcon’s Flight’; Eric Baumgartner’s ‘New Orleans Nocturne’; Naoko Ikeda’s ‘The Glacial Mermaid; Naoko Ikeda’s ‘Shooting Stars in Summer’; and William Gillock’s ‘Valse Etude’.
There is a clear progression in difficulty here, but I hope that the volume will inspire learners to play music of all levels. Just because you’re able to tackle Grade 6 pieces, there is no shame in playing simple, Grade 1 pieces, well. There is just as much to be enjoyed and expressed in the character and styles of simpler pieces as there is in the more challenging repertoire.
At 118 pages, The Willis Student Recital Collection is a substantial volume, and for a learner and pianist at the beginning of their musical journey, will provide a wealth of joy for many years to come. It is evident from the pages of the book that much care has gone into the presentation and editing of the music. In many respects, it’s a ‘no nonsense’ collection which does exactly what it says on the tin. It’s excellent value for money and the wealth and variety of music included means it’s worth every penny.
If you feel stuck in a rut, using the same pieces, the same anthologies, and the same collections, this book is the perfect thing to inspire you. Whether you’re a piano teacher or pianist, there is so much to be enjoyed here, time and time again.
Whether the music is learnt to be performed in concerts or recitals, or simply to be enjoyed in lessons and at home, each piece, full of character, will accompany pianists on a journey of discovery. The music here deserves to be better known, and the archives have certainly yielded a selection of pieces which will delight, encourage, and inspire learners of all ages.
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Published 30.4.25
The Willis Student Recital Collection is published by Willis Music, ISBN 9798350147278, RRP £24.99.
I was sent a review copy of this book free of charge; however, this review is my honest opinion as a teacher. You can find my Reviews Policy here.
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