Big Black Bear [Alf:00-32830]

Young students will enjoy exploring the lower registers of the piano with this clever solo. Both the music and the lyrics depict the antics of a large bear trying to climb a tree. Dynamic changes and accents add to the effect. The melody is divided between the hands with the left-hand thumb remaining on Middle C throughout the piece, and the right hand thumb staying mostly on D. Together, they create the key of A minor. An optional duet accompaniment written in the upper register of the piano provides harmony and adds to the drama of the piece.