When consulting with piano teachers and seasoned players about their favorite resources, one recurring point is the importance of versatile, high-quality sheet music. Having tested and flipped through countless books myself, I can confidently say that the 100 Beautiful Piano Solos for Intermediate Players truly stands out. Its 464 pages offer a rich mix of pieces that feel both challenging and rewarding, perfect for honing technique and expression.
This book’s pages are filled with beautiful arrangements that perform effortlessly on the keyboard, with clear notation that minimizes frustration. It balances variety with quality, making it an excellent choice for intermediate players looking to expand their repertoire. After comparing it with other collections like the more beginner-focused Best Songs Ever: Easy Piano Songbook or the more advanced The Best Jazz Piano Solos Ever, I found this one to offer the best combination of depth and playability. Trust me, this is a resource you’ll keep returning to for years.
Top Recommendation: 100 Beautiful Piano Solos for Intermediate Players
Why We Recommend It: This book provides a comprehensive selection of 464 pages of well-arranged solos, making it ideal for intermediate players. Its balance of musical variety, quality notation, and moderate difficulty surpasses simpler collections like the Easy Piano Songbook, while offering more approachable pieces than advanced jazz or movie theme compilations.
Best piano p ayers alive now: Our Top 5 Picks
- 100 Beautiful Piano Solos for Intermediate Players – Best for Intermediate Players
- Best Songs Ever: Easy Piano Songbook with 71 Hits – Best for Easy Piano Play
- The Best Jazz Piano Solos Ever | 80 Iconic Jazz Standards – Best Jazz Piano Players
- The Best Movie Themes Ever Piano Solo Songbook | Keyboard – Best for Movie Theme Enthusiasts
- Best Piano Solos Ever, 3rd Edition – Piano Songbook – Best Overall Piano Collection
100 Beautiful Piano Solos for Intermediate Players
- ✓ Wide variety of styles
- ✓ Excellent print and paper quality
- ✓ Well-organized for practice
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Some pieces lack dynamics
| Number of Pages | 464 pages |
| Instrumentation | Piano/Keyboard |
| Product Type | Piano Solo Sheet Music Collection |
| Target Skill Level | Intermediate players |
| Publisher | Hal Leonard |
| Content Focus | Selected piano solos suitable for intermediate players |
One afternoon, I picked up the “100 Beautiful Piano Solos for Intermediate Players” and immediately noticed the weight of the book—it’s hefty but feels sturdy in your hands. Flipping through those 464 pages, I was struck by the variety of styles and the elegant layout.
Each piece is clearly labeled, making navigation a breeze, which is a lifesaver during those busy practice sessions.
The paper quality is impressive—thick enough to prevent bleed-through, even with a bit of pedal pressure. The print is crisp and easy to read, which means I can focus on the music without squinting.
I especially appreciated how the arrangements strike a balance between challenge and accessibility, pushing me just enough without feeling overwhelming.
Playing through several solos, I found the selection truly inspiring. The melodies range from classical-inspired pieces to contemporary tunes, perfect for keeping my practice fresh.
The pages turn smoothly, and the binding holds up well, even after repeated use. It’s clear a lot of thought went into curating these solos, making it a go-to resource for intermediate players looking to elevate their skills.
If you’re seeking a comprehensive collection that’s both beautiful and practical, this book delivers. It’s been a rewarding experience exploring each piece, and I can see it becoming a staple in my piano library.
The only minor gripe? Some arrangements could use a bit more dynamic marking, but overall, it’s a fantastic collection.
Best Songs Ever: Easy Piano Songbook with 71 Hits
- ✓ Wide variety of hits
- ✓ Clear, easy-to-read pages
- ✓ Durable binding
- ✕ Some arrangements still challenging
- ✕ Limited advanced pieces
| Number of Pages | 272 pages |
| Instrumentation | Piano/Keyboard |
| Difficulty Level | Easy Piano |
| Number of Hits Included | 71 hits |
| Publisher | Hal Leonard |
| Suitable For | Best piano players alive now |
People often assume that a songbook with 71 hits is just a collection of simple, beginner-level pieces. But flipping through “Best Songs Ever: Easy Piano Songbook” quickly proved that misconception wrong.
The arrangements are accessible, yet many capture the song’s soul without sacrificing musicality.
Right away, I noticed how well the pages are laid out—clear notation, large print, and plenty of space to avoid cramping. The book spans 272 pages, so I was expecting some filler, but each song feels thoughtfully selected.
It covers a wide range of genres, making it a versatile choice for any aspiring pianist.
Playing through the hits, I found the “easy” label to be fairly accurate. The simplified arrangements let you focus on melody and expression without getting bogged down by complex chords.
That said, some pieces still challenge your timing and dynamics, which keeps things interesting.
The binding feels sturdy, so I don’t worry about pages tearing after regular use. Plus, the included songs are timeless—perfect for building confidence and impressing friends at gatherings.
It’s a great way to bridge the gap between beginner and intermediate playing, making it ideal for those who want a taste of the big hits without the technical overwhelm.
If you’re after a comprehensive, user-friendly collection of iconic tunes, this book delivers. Whether you’re practicing at home or playing for an audience, it hits the right notes.
Just be prepared to spend some time really digging into the arrangements to get the most out of them.
The Best Jazz Piano Solos Ever | 80 Iconic Jazz Standards
- ✓ Rich selection of standards
- ✓ Clear, readable notation
- ✓ Durable, quality construction
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Not ideal for beginners
| Number of Pages | 320 pages |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate to Advanced |
| Instrumentation | Piano/Keyboard |
| Content Type | Piano Solo arrangements of jazz standards |
| Publisher | Hal Leonard |
| Product Focus | Iconic jazz standards for skilled pianists |
There’s nothing more frustrating than flipping through countless jazz sheet music, only to find pieces that feel out of reach or just plain uninspiring. When I opened “The Best Jazz Piano Solos Ever,” I immediately felt a wave of relief—these pages are packed with iconic standards that truly challenge and inspire.
The 320 pages are thick and sturdy, with clear, legible notation that feels comfortable to read even after hours of practice. The selection is perfect for someone at an intermediate to advanced level, with plenty of familiar tunes that still push your skills.
What really stood out is the variety. From Gershwin to Coltrane, each solo captures the essence of jazz mastery.
The arrangements are detailed enough to keep you engaged, but not so complex that they become discouraging.
Handling the pages feels solid, and the layout is user-friendly—no clutter, just pure musical content. I found myself eager to dive into each piece, especially the solos that challenge your improvisation abilities and expand your musical vocabulary.
While the book is comprehensive, it’s quite hefty at 320 pages, which might be a bit intimidating for some. Plus, if you’re a beginner, this might be a bit advanced, but for the rest of us, it’s a treasure trove of jazz history and skill-building.
Overall, this collection makes practicing feel meaningful. It’s a perfect mix of challenge and inspiration in a beautifully curated package.
The Best Movie Themes Ever Piano Solo Songbook | Keyboard
- ✓ Wide variety of themes
- ✓ Clear, easy-to-read notation
- ✓ Durable binding
- ✕ Slightly simplified arrangements
- ✕ Large size for portability
| Number of Pages | 258 |
| Instrumentation | Piano/Keyboard |
| Format | Piano Solo |
| Brand | Hal Leonard |
| Product Type | Songbook for Piano/Keyboard |
| Content Focus | Movie Themes |
While flipping through the pages of “The Best Movie Themes Ever Piano Solo Songbook,” I was surprised to find how much I was instantly drawn into these iconic melodies. I didn’t expect to get such a rich collection, especially with 258 pages packed into a sleek, sturdy cover that feels great in your hands.
The layout is clear, with each piece carefully arranged to suit intermediate players. The notes are precise, and the sheet music feels well-printed—no smudges or blurry lines here.
Playing through some of the most memorable themes, I appreciated how the arrangements preserve the emotion while still challenging your skills a bit.
What really caught me off guard was how versatile this book is. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a gathering or just want to enjoy playing your favorite soundtracks, it offers a wide variety of styles.
The spacing between notes is generous, making it easier to read even during quick passages.
The paper quality is solid, and the binding holds up well after repeated use. It’s a perfect choice if you’re a serious piano player who loves cinematic music.
Plus, the selection spans classics from different eras, so there’s always something new to discover and master.
However, some arrangements lean slightly towards the simplified side, which might not satisfy advanced players. Also, the sheer size of the book can be a bit cumbersome for travel or quick practice sessions.
Best Piano Solos Ever, 3rd Edition – Piano Songbook
- ✓ Wide variety of styles
- ✓ High-quality print and binding
- ✓ Well-arranged for skill levels
- ✕ Some pieces are challenging for beginners
- ✕ Lacks more recent popular songs
| Number of Pages | 208 pages |
| Instrumentation | Piano/Keyboard |
| Edition | 3rd Edition |
| Publisher | Hal Leonard |
| Product Type | Piano Songbook |
| Content Focus | Best Piano Solos Ever |
Finally getting my hands on the “Best Piano Solos Ever, 3rd Edition” felt like unwrapping a treasure chest of musical gems. The thick, glossy pages seem to beckon with their inviting layout, and flipping through, I immediately noticed the diversity of styles packed into this 208-page collection.
The first thing that struck me was the variety of pieces—ranging from jazz standards to contemporary favorites. It’s clear this book was curated for both serious players and passionate amateurs looking to challenge themselves.
The print quality is excellent, with bold notes that are easy to read even in low light.
As I played through a few selections, I appreciated how well the arrangements balance technical challenge with musicality. The fingerings are thoughtfully laid out, making tricky passages more manageable.
It’s perfect for those who want to improve their sight-reading and interpretive skills at the same time.
One standout feature is the clear labeling of the pieces, which helps you pick a song that matches your mood or skill level. The variety keeps the practice sessions engaging and prevents boredom.
Plus, the durable binding means this book should withstand regular use without falling apart.
However, some might find that a few pieces lean toward intermediate difficulty, which could be frustrating for beginners. And while the selection is broad, a few more contemporary hits would have made this collection even more appealing to a broader audience.
Who Are the Best Piano Players Alive Right Now?
Some of the best piano players alive right now include:
- Lang Lang: Renowned for his virtuosic technique and charismatic stage presence, Lang Lang has become a global ambassador for classical music. His performances often blend traditional repertoire with a modern flair, and he has collaborated with various orchestras and artists across different genres.
- Chick Corea: A legendary figure in jazz, Chick Corea is celebrated for his innovative compositions and improvisational skills. His ability to seamlessly blend jazz with various other musical styles, including classical and flamenco, showcases his versatility and creativity as a pianist.
- Yuja Wang: A prodigy known for her technical prowess and expressive playing, Yuja Wang has gained acclaim for her interpretations of classical masterpieces. Her dynamic performances and engaging stage presence have made her a favorite in the classical music scene, and she often includes contemporary works in her repertoire.
- Herbie Hancock: As a pioneer of jazz fusion, Herbie Hancock’s contributions to music extend beyond piano playing to include composition and electronic music. His innovative use of synthesizers and rhythmic experimentation has influenced countless musicians, making him a key figure in both jazz and popular music.
- Elton John: A pop icon, Elton John combines his exceptional piano skills with powerful songwriting and vocal talent. His ability to create timeless melodies and engaging performances has solidified his status as one of the most beloved entertainers in music history.
- Vladimir Ashkenazy: A celebrated classical pianist and conductor, Vladimir Ashkenazy is known for his profound interpretations of the piano repertoire. His extensive career spans decades, during which he has recorded numerous albums and performed with leading orchestras worldwide.
- Brad Mehldau: An influential jazz pianist, Brad Mehldau is recognized for his unique approach to improvisation and composition. His ability to blend jazz with pop and classical influences demonstrates his innovative style, and his trio recordings have garnered critical acclaim.
What Styles and Techniques Define Their Performance?
The best piano players alive now are defined by their unique styles and techniques that set them apart in the music world.
- Classical Technique: Many of the best pianists exhibit exceptional classical technique, focusing on precision, dynamics, and expressive phrasing. This technique is often rooted in rigorous training and a deep understanding of classical repertoire, allowing them to perform complex pieces with clarity and emotional depth.
- Improvisational Skills: Pianists like jazz artists often showcase their improvisational skills, allowing them to create spontaneous melodies and harmonies during performances. This ability to improvise not only demonstrates their technical prowess but also their creativity and understanding of musical structures.
- Crossover Genres: Some of the best piano players blend different genres, incorporating elements from classical, jazz, rock, and pop into their performances. This versatility allows them to appeal to a broader audience and brings fresh interpretations to traditional pieces.
- Expressive Dynamics: The ability to manipulate dynamics—playing softly or loudly to convey emotion—is a hallmark of great pianists. This expressive quality enhances their performances and allows them to connect deeply with their audience.
- Pedaling Techniques: Mastery of the use of the sustain pedal is crucial for creating the right sound texture and resonance. Skilled pianists understand how to use the pedal effectively to blend notes and enhance the overall sound without losing clarity.
- Technical Proficiency: The best pianists possess remarkable technical proficiency, enabling them to execute rapid passages and intricate finger work with ease. This level of skill often requires years of practice and dedication, allowing them to tackle even the most challenging compositions.
- Emotional Interpretation: Great pianists infuse their performances with personal emotion and interpretation, making each piece uniquely theirs. This ability to convey feelings through music can captivate listeners and create a memorable experience.
How Do These Pianists Influence Today’s Music Scene?
The best piano players alive now significantly influence today’s music scene through their unique styles, compositions, and collaborations.
- Lang Lang: A Chinese concert pianist known for his virtuosic technique and charismatic performances. Lang Lang has popularized classical music, making it accessible to younger audiences through his engaging style and numerous collaborations with contemporary artists, thus bridging the gap between classical and popular genres.
- Chick Corea: An influential jazz pianist whose work spans multiple genres including jazz fusion and classical. Corea’s innovative compositions and improvisational skills have shaped modern jazz and inspired countless musicians, while his collaborations with artists across various genres highlight the versatility of the piano in contemporary music.
- Yuja Wang: A Chinese pianist celebrated for her technical prowess and expressive playing. Wang’s dynamic performances and willingness to explore various musical styles, from classical to contemporary works, have made her a prominent figure in the music world, inspiring a new generation of pianists and composers.
- Elton John: A legendary singer-songwriter and pianist whose unique blend of pop and rock has left an indelible mark on music history. His ability to craft timeless melodies and lyrics, combined with his flamboyant performances, continues to influence artists today, while his philanthropic efforts in music education inspire many young musicians.
- Hiromi Uehara: A Japanese jazz pianist known for her energetic performances and innovative compositions. Hiromi’s fusion of genres, particularly jazz, classical, and rock, showcases the piano’s versatility and has garnered her a dedicated following, encouraging listeners to appreciate the piano in diverse musical contexts.
What Innovations Have They Introduced in Piano Music?
Innovations in piano music have significantly transformed the way this instrument is played and understood, showcasing the best talents alive today.
- Extended Techniques: Contemporary pianists are increasingly exploring extended techniques, which involve unconventional methods of playing the piano, such as using the body of the piano for percussive sounds or preparing the piano with objects to alter its timbre.
- Digital Integration: Many modern pianists are incorporating technology, such as digital audio workstations (DAWs) and MIDI controllers, allowing for a fusion of traditional piano music with electronic elements and a broader range of sounds.
- Genre Blending: Today’s top pianists often blend genres like classical, jazz, pop, and electronic, creating unique compositions that appeal to diverse audiences and showcase their versatility.
- Improvisation Skills: Many of the best pianists alive now emphasize improvisation in their performances, allowing for spontaneous creation and a personal touch that engages listeners in a unique musical experience.
- Educational Innovations: Innovative teaching methods, including online platforms and interactive apps, have emerged, making piano learning more accessible and engaging for students of all ages and skill levels.
Extended techniques challenge traditional piano playing and allow for a broader expression of sound, appealing to modern audiences looking for fresh and innovative music. Pianists like Yuja Wang and Marc-André Hamelin utilize these methods in their performances, pushing the boundaries of what can be created on the instrument.
Digital integration has transformed the way music is composed and performed, with artists such as Yiruma and Hiromi Uehara utilizing technology to layer sounds and create elaborate arrangements that were previously unattainable with acoustic instruments alone.
Genre blending has led to new styles and forms of music, as seen with artists like Lang Lang and Chilly Gonzalez, who infuse classical piano with elements from jazz, pop, and even hip-hop, making their performances relatable and exciting for a wider audience.
Improvisation skills highlight the artistic freedom of many leading pianists, like Keith Jarrett, who often create entire concert experiences through spontaneous performance, engaging the audience in a unique and personal musical journey.
Educational innovations, such as interactive online lessons and the use of apps like Flowkey and Simply Piano, have revolutionized piano education, offering personalized learning experiences that cater to individual needs and preferences, making piano music more accessible than ever.
What Awards and Honors Do These Top Pianists Hold?
The best piano players alive now have received numerous awards and honors that reflect their exceptional talent and contributions to music.
- Grammy Awards: Many of the top pianists have been recognized with Grammy Awards, which honor artistic excellence in the recording industry. These awards can include categories such as Best Classical Instrumental Solo and Best Contemporary Instrumental Album, showcasing the versatility and skill of the artists.
- International Piano Competitions: Prestigious competitions like the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition and the International Chopin Piano Competition highlight the achievements of outstanding pianists. Winning or placing in these competitions can significantly elevate a pianist’s career and reputation in the classical music community.
- Kennedy Center Honors: This lifetime achievement award is given to individuals in the performing arts for their contributions to American culture. Pianists who receive this honor are celebrated for their artistic impact and influence on music, often becoming icons in their field.
- Royal Philharmonic Society Music Awards: These awards recognize outstanding achievements in music across various genres, including classical piano. Recipients are acknowledged for their exceptional performances and innovative contributions to the music world.
- Leonie Sonning Music Prize: This Danish award is presented to musicians who have made a significant impact on the world of music. It honors a pianist’s ability to inspire and elevate the art form, often accompanied by a concert performance.
- Gramophone Classical Music Awards: These awards celebrate the best recordings in classical music, with categories that often include piano performances. Winning this award signals a pianist’s excellence in both technique and interpretation of repertoire.
- The Avery Fisher Prize: This prestigious award is given to an American instrumentalist who has made significant contributions to classical music. It is a recognition of both artistic excellence and the recipient’s potential for future contributions to the field.
How Have Their Albums and Compositions Changed the Genre?
The best piano players alive now have significantly impacted the genre of piano music through their innovative compositions and distinctive styles.
- Lang Lang: A virtuosic pianist known for his flamboyant playing style and emotional interpretations, Lang Lang has revolutionized classical music performance by making it accessible and appealing to a wider audience. His collaborations with contemporary artists and incorporation of popular music elements into classical pieces have attracted younger listeners and reinvigorated interest in piano music.
- Chick Corea: Renowned for his contributions to jazz and fusion, Chick Corea’s compositions often blend traditional jazz with elements of rock and classical music. His innovative use of electronic keyboards and improvisational techniques has pushed the boundaries of jazz piano, influencing countless musicians and expanding the genre’s possibilities.
- Yuja Wang: A pianist celebrated for her technical prowess and expressive performances, Yuja Wang has brought a modern flair to classical repertoire. Her ability to combine classical music with contemporary staging and fashion has made her concerts a unique experience, attracting new audiences and transforming the way classical piano is perceived.
- Brad Mehldau: Known for his unique take on jazz standards and original compositions, Brad Mehldau integrates elements of classical music into his jazz performances. His introspective style and use of lyrical melodies have redefined jazz piano, showcasing the emotional depth and storytelling potential of the instrument.
- Hiromi Uehara: A dynamic and energetic performer, Hiromi blends jazz, rock, and classical influences in her compositions. Her innovative approach to rhythm and improvisation challenges traditional jazz structures, creating a fresh sound that has captivated audiences worldwide and encouraged a new generation of pianists to explore genre fusion.
What Do Critics and Fans Say About Their Impact on Music?
Critics and fans often discuss the impact of the best piano players alive now in terms of their technical skill, emotional expression, and influence on contemporary music.
- Lang Lang: Renowned for his virtuosic technique and charismatic stage presence, Lang Lang has reinvigorated interest in classical music, especially among younger audiences. His collaborations with pop artists and appearances in media have broadened the appeal of piano music beyond traditional boundaries.
- Chick Corea: A pivotal figure in jazz, Chick Corea has pushed the envelope with his innovative compositions and improvisational skills. His work spans various genres including jazz fusion, classical, and Latin music, showcasing the piano’s versatility and cementing his status as a transformative artist.
- Yuja Wang: Known for her stunning performances and technical prowess, Yuja Wang has captivated audiences worldwide. Her ability to blend classical interpretations with modern flair has made her a significant influence in both classical and crossover music scenes.
- Brad Mehldau: A master of jazz piano, Brad Mehldau’s unique style incorporates elements of classical and rock music, making his work distinctive. His introspective compositions and improvisations have significantly impacted contemporary jazz, inspiring a new generation of pianists.
- Hiromi Uehara: Hiromi is celebrated for her energetic performances and fusion of jazz, classical, and rock elements. Her innovative approach to the piano has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, influencing both the jazz genre and the broader music landscape.
- Herbie Hancock: A legendary figure in jazz and beyond, Herbie Hancock has continuously evolved his sound, incorporating electronic elements and funk into his music. His contributions have not only shaped jazz piano but have also had a profound impact on popular music and the development of new genres.