Bryan Kelly’s A Baker’s Dozen is a delightful collection of thirteen short piano pieces designed for early-grade players, yet brimming with musical charm and pedagogical value.

Composed with accessibility in mind, the set offers a rich variety of styles and moods, making it a rewarding experience for both students and teachers.

Each piece in the collection is a miniature character study, showcasing Kelly’s knack for blending classical forms with playful modern twists.

The opening number, “Hot Cross Buns,” sets the tone with a whimsical nod to the nursery rhyme, while “Sarabande” introduces a stately Baroque elegance. These contrasting styles continue throughout the set, offering young pianists a chance to explore different musical eras and expressions.

Among the standout pieces is “Astrologer,” which evokes a mysterious, almost magical atmosphere through its modal harmonies and curious melodic turns.

“Cancan” bursts with energy, channelling the exuberance of French cabaret, while “Catch Me” is a lively chase, full of rhythmic surprises and staccato playfulness.

Kelly’s use of syncopation and dynamic contrast in “Gypsy Song” and “Calypso” adds a vibrant, dance-like quality that encourages expressive playing.

The latter half of the collection continues to impress.

“Almost a Waltz” teases with its off-kilter rhythm, never quite settling into the expected triple meter, while “Celebration March” is bold and triumphant, ideal for developing a sense of phrasing and articulation.

“Polonaise” pays homage to Chopin with its stately rhythm and ornamental flourishes, and “Sad Folk Song” offers a moment of introspection, inviting players to explore emotional depth.

Closing the set are “Pavane” and “Spanish Dance,” both of which highlight Kelly’s ability to evoke cultural flavors without overwhelming the technical limitations of beginner pianists.

The Pavane is graceful and melancholic, while the Spanish Dance ends the collection with flair, featuring rhythmic vitality and melodic sparkle.

Kelly’s compositional style is both educational and imaginative. He avoids excessive technical demands, focusing instead on musical storytelling and stylistic variety. This makes A Baker’s Dozen not just a teaching tool, but a gateway into the wider world of piano literature. The pieces are short enough to be learned quickly, yet rich enough to be performed with nuance.

In sum, A Baker’s Dozen is a charming and thoughtfully crafted set that balances simplicity with sophistication. It’s ideal for pianists in Grades 1–4, offering a journey through diverse musical landscapes while nurturing essential skills.

Bryan Kelly’s contribution to the educational repertoire is both practical and inspiring—a true treat for budding musicians and their mentors alike

Previous Published by Spartan Press

Former catalogue number: SP1269

Kelly: A Baker’s Dozen

13 Easy Pieces for Piano

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