Piano Forum

Hello ShoreMusic.

I'm new to the forum and intended to lurk for a while but then you go and ask a question like that!

1. Moritz Moszkowski - He had a brilliant understanding of how the hands fit on the keyboard and wrote music that lies well under the hands but still presents plenty of challenges. Since you said "intermediate", I'd suggest starting with something like his "Dix petits morceaux". If they're too easy for you, just start exploring (tons available on IMSLP). Moszkowski is wonderfully imaginative in his use of harmony and his pieces are full of charm and usually easier than they look or sound.

2. In a somewhat similar vein is Cecile Chaminade (coincidentally, Moszkowski's sister-in-law). Generally I'd say that much of her music (particularly the salon pieces) is a trifle easier than Moszkowski's with a similar degree of charm.

3. "irrational" mentioned several Russian composers. I'd add Lyapunov to the list. A little harder than either of the composers I mentioned above but worth the effort. "Chant du crepuscule" might be a good place to start...

4. If you like French music, Emmanuel Chabrier's piano music is well worth looking into. Probably only a few pieces would really fall into the "intermediate" category but they would include a few of the "10 Pieces Pittoresques" and the ever popular "Habanera".

5. Finally, the piano music of Xaver Scharwenka is worth looking into. Somewhat similar to Moszkowski in style. The first few of his once very famous "Polish Dances" are not too hard and - again - full of charm.

Enjoy your explorations.

jeff ok