A delightful book of piano solos called Color Suites (or Colour if you’re in the UK!) by Starr Meneely made it to my studio this week, and I have thoroughly enjoyed playing through it! Starr lives in the UK and has been teaching piano for 27 years. In addition to this new collection she has also published a unique piano method based in Solfa, an accompanying scale book and music diary, and the children’s book, What a Lovely Sound. I love the colorful, clean look of the piano books, including interiors that are uncluttered and focused on the music.
Of her Color Suites book Starr explains:
“These pieces are composed in a highly patterned way, completely diatonic (with no accidentals), and each one sounds ‘grown up’, with lots of chances to use pedal and experiment with phrasing and dynamics.”
I heartily concur. Each suite includes three movements themed according to the stated color (e.g. the Red Suite movements are Mahogany, Vermillion, and Crimson). Each suite also retains the same key signature, with some of the movements in the Major and some in the minor key. I found myself thinking of possibilities like using some for rote teaching (Pale Blue and Malachite would be especially good candidates for this) or for reinforcing specific concepts like cross-hand arpeggios (Sage), playing the melody in the left hand (Fuschia), keeping a soft inner voice (Gold), and so on. I know this whole collection will get lots of playing time in my studio for years to come!
Starr’s YouTube channel contains complete recordings of each suite, along with additional commentary from her about each piece after she plays it. These are perfect for a late elementary or early intermediate student who is looking for imaginative pieces that fit well in the hand and will showcase their growing abilities without adding overly complicated elements. An extra perk is that you can order any of Starr’s books in the US or the UK and get free shipping. While you’re visiting her site, be sure to check out the section with free piano and music theory worksheets as well. Her Drawing Sharps worksheet is so simple, but brilliant. I’m always excited to learn about new composers and resources in the piano teaching world and hope you enjoy discovering Starr Meneely and her piano books as well!
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