Scenes of a Palestinian Childhood
for Piano Solo and Four Hands Piano
Composed for the elementary to early intermediate piano student
This suite invites students and audiences alike into a vivid, heartfelt musical journey through memories and imagined moments of a Palestinian childhood. Written for early-level pianists — Levels 1, 2, and 3 — these four solos and three duets blend playful storytelling with accessible technique, offering young musicians a chance to grow their skills while exploring music’s power to express place, culture, and friendship.
Each piece captures a distinct scene: the mirrored laughter of two friends whose hands dance together on the keyboard before embracing in harmony; the darting energy of squirrels racing up a tree; the lively exchange between teacher and student, young and older hands shaping sound together; and, at the suite’s heart, a tender weaving of Palestinian and Hebrew folk melodies — a musical vision of peace and shared humanity. Both charming and meaningful, Scenes of a Palestinian Childhood offers pianists a first taste of music as storytelling, connection, and hope.
Commissioned by Penny Lazarus Piano Studio
Cover art by Salman Al Nawati
Edited by Penny Lazarus
ISBN: 9798298563000
“In every note I write, I try to plant a seed of peace in a land exhausted by war, and to offer the children of Palestine a window to a wider sky. These pieces are not just music, but a prayer from the keys of the piano—that every child in Gaza may sleep in safety, dream without fear, and wake to a morning of light and freedom.”
Pre-Order Now
Scenes of a Palestinian Childhood is available for pre-order at a special price of $17 (regular price $25 upon release). This collection for Piano Solo and Four Hands Piano is written for elementary to early intermediate students, offering expressive pieces inspired by childhood memories. Proceeds from book sales will go to support children and music students in Gaza City.