Although it is a simple 16-bar piano piece, its sparse texture makes it not easy to perform. Here, I would like to discuss two important points. One is pedaling. Children who play this assigned piece may not yet be able to use the pedal, but I strongly encourage them to use the pedal, even if it requires an assist pedal.

Pedaling Examples

• Bars 1-4: Change the pedal twice, on the 1st and 3rd beats, only in bar 3. For the other bars, sustain the pedal for the entire bar.
• Bars 5-8: Same as bars 1-4.
• Bars 9-12: Sustain the pedal for the entire bar in bar 9, and change the pedal twice, on the 1st and 3rd beats, in bar 10.
• Bars 11-12: Do not use the pedal at all.
• Bars 13-16: Same as bars 1-4.

Dynamics

• Bars 1-4: Inform students that the basic melodic contour of the phrase is C D E D C. Therefore, the tension rises in bars 2-3, and the volume should be reduced in bars 1 and 4. Pay particular attention to ensure that the C in bar 4 does not become too loud.
• Bars 5-8: Vary the volume compared to bars 1-4. It might be advisable to slightly reduce the volume compared to bars 1-4.
• Bars 9-12: If this section is perceived as the point of highest tension in the piece, a slight increase in volume may be appropriate. However, given the character of this piece, excessively strong dynamics are not required.
• Bars 13-16: Same as bars 1-4.

The overall sound quality might benefit from being soft and somewhat blurred. Reduce the volume of the left hand as much as possible.