Dive into the shimmering sounds of the sea with Ocean Tails—a collection of 12 imaginative piano solos inspired by the rugged beauty of Vancouver Island, Canada. Perfect for Preparatory to Grade 1 level students, these pieces feature familiar hand positions, patterned writing, and expressive, memorable melodies that students love to play.

Each piece is written in a different ancient church mode, giving the music a fresh, mysterious sound while gently expanding students' listening and theory skills. From playful sea creatures to tranquil coastal scenes, Ocean Tails offers rich opportunities for musical storytelling and creativity at the piano.

🎶 Educational highlights:
• Repeating patterns & intuitive hand shapes
• Early exploration of modal sounds
• Appealing imagery and titles

20 pages. Ideal for early elementary students of all ages looking to explore beyond the ordinary.

Titles include: Starfish Strut, Ocean Tails, Tally-Ho Trot, Tall Totems, Two Banana Slugs, Driftwood Shore, Cathedral Grove, Harbour Buzz, Stroll Through Beacon Hill, Double Decker Bus, The Malahat Drive, Fan Tan Alley

Two Banana Slugs- Conservatory Canada Contemporary Repertoire Grade 1

Stroll Through Beacon Hill- Conservatory Canada Contemporary Repertoire Grade 1

Studio License Available Here

Hardcopy edition available on Red Leaf Pianoworks

Listen to Ocean Tails Here

Frequently Asked Questions

What level is Ocean Tails?

Ocean Tails is written for early elementary students at the Preparatory to Grade 1 level (RCM or Conservatory Canada equivalent). It is suitable for students of all ages in the early stages of piano study.

What makes Ocean Tails different from other elementary piano books?

Each of the 12 solos is written in a different ancient church mode — Dorian, Phrygian, Lydian, and others — giving the music a sound that is fresh and distinctive without being too difficult. Students are introduced to modal sounds naturally and early, while the familiar hand positions and repeating patterns keep the learning accessible and confidence-building.

Is Ocean Tails on any Canadian exam lists?

Yes. Two Banana Slugs and Stroll Through Beacon Hill are both listed in the Conservatory Canada Contemporary Repertoire at Grade 1.

What inspired the collection?

Ocean Tails is inspired by the landscapes, wildlife, and landmarks of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Titles reference real places and creatures — from Fan Tan Alley in Victoria's Chinatown to Cathedral Grove's ancient forest and the coastal wildlife of the island.

Is it suitable for young children and adult learners?

Both. The imaginative titles and vivid imagery engage younger students, while the modal character and musical depth also appeal to adult beginners and returners looking for repertoire that goes beyond the ordinary.

How is it delivered?

Ocean Tails is an instant PDF download (20 pages), sent by email after purchase. A single-user license covers one digital copy and one printed copy for personal use. A studio license is available separately, and a hardcopy edition is available through Red Leaf Pianoworks.