A Porcupine in Love

Description: A short beginning piece that has several teaching ideas. It begins in middle-C position and the right-hand position changes at m. 9.

Purpose: Introduces various touches, dynamic contrasts, 8va, accents, a touch of pedal at the end, and a glissando for fun

Suggestions for Instruction: Have the student first practice “bouncing” a single staccato note, then play the notes on the page in the same manner. Practice a 5-finger legato, then play those notes on the page. See if the student can play two notes; one note mf and the other f and hear a difference. It's much easier to make a difference between f and p. Work on contrasting two softs also (mm. 27-28).

Key: C Major