Finding jazz pieces that are both musically authentic and technically appropriate for developing pianists can be a challenge. In this episode of The Piano Pedagogy Playlist, I explore Portraits in Jazz by pianist and composer Valerie Capers—a standout collection that brings authentic jazz styles into the intermediate student repertoire.

Capers’ collection offers pieces that capture the spirit of ragtime, ballad, bebop, and bossa nova while remaining accessible.

And, seriously, there’s one of the loveliest pieces I’ve played in a while, at any level.

Sweet Mister Jelly Roll (from Portraits in Jazz)

Valerie Capers Late Intermediate

Printed Edition

Billie’s Song (from Portraits in Jazz)

Valerie Capers Early Intermediate

Digital Download

Printed Edition

The Monk (from Portraits in Jazz)

Valerie Capers Late Intermediate

Printed Edition

Bossa Brasilia (from Portraits in Jazz)

Valerie Capers Late Intermediate

Printed Edition