Piano Waves consists of 5 pieces intended for intermediate level, which is around Grades 4-6 of ABRSM, Trinity College, AMEB, or RCM examination board levels.

With a hint of minimalism, Piano Waves lie comfortably under the hands for pupils. Inspired by my adventures at sea, when I spent many years giving piano recitals on ships, I hope these pieces provide food for thought musically, as well as developing certain technical aspects of a student’s playing.

The first of the set, Seahorse Dream, portrays the Seahorse’s initially peaceful slumber, but after a while, the creature is suddenly awoken by a vivid memory, before dozing off again. Waltz on a Sunken Ship is an eerie, underwater peek at a handsome passenger ship at the bottom of the sea, complete with faded yet elegant dining rooms and dance halls, depicting scenes of yesteryear. Ocean Surge reveals the power and beauty of the sea; the climactic cascades characterize the colossal swell of the waves. Asilomar is a ‘refuge by the sea’; the overall calm, joyous feel of this work, might suggest a leisurely hot afternoon admiring the ocean from the shore. The Flying Dutchman represents a mythical ghost ship, always sailing but never quite reaching land; a shadowy, apparition of a ship, continuously moving on in the distance.

‘This collection presents an inspirational, minimalist pianistic array of a mysterious & atmospheric underwater world. All would make lovely concert and festival pieces, providing pianists with a wonderful opportunity for expression, beautiful tone and colour. My favourite is ‘Waltz On A Sunken Ship’.’

British composer and educator, Heather Hammond (2016)

Purchase Piano Waves, here.

Publications

Melanie Spanswick has written and published a wide range of courses, anthologies, examination syllabuses, and text books, including Play it again: PIANO (published by Schott Music). This best-selling graded, progressive piano course contains a large selection of repertoire featuring a huge array of styles and genres, with copious practice tips and suggestions for every piece.

For more information, please visit the publications page, here.