Modern/Contemporary Repertoire for Children

[acwh]

Which are the modern/contemporary repertoires (from grass-root to intermediate level) for children that you find interesting?
What are the challenges in teaching them?
Thanks! 

[go12_3]

I use the Jazz n Rags at Your Fingertips compiled and edited by Janet Vogt.  There are four books altogether.  Book 1 being easy.  It has fun and upbeat tunes that students enjoy.  However, the student needs to have at least a year of piano lessons in order to begin Book 1.  I have had students struggle because I used to begin the Jazz n Rags Book 1 too soon.  The best level would be around a second year level, like in Piano Adventure book 2A or 2B.  It depends upon the student's ability for rhythm and reading notes easily.  Also, in the Faber & Faber Literature books have contemporary repertoire from Book 1 to Book 4 levels.  Great books.  Hope this will help you.

[go12_3]

The contemporary composer from Russia, Vladimir Rebikov has some interesting pieces that I feel children would like----intermediate level.  "Playing Soldiers,"   "In the Forest,"  "Dance wih a Bell,"  "The Bear," and "The Busy Machine."  Hope that would help.