A "sketch" traditionally refers to a rough drawing or painting in which an artist notes down his preliminary ideas for a work that will eventually be realized with greater precision and detail. The term also applies to brief creative pieces that per se may have artistic merit.  "SKETCHES for Piano" are original improvised compositions in a classical style created and performed in real time without editing.

SKETCHES for piano

Recorded 02/22/2025. "Little Ben" echoes the chimes of the "Big" as the motif central to the first Sketch.

SKETCHES 01 - Little Ben

Recorded 02/23/2025.  "Dreams of Nobility" imagines stately music for the pomp and entertainment of the liege. 

SKETCHES 02 - Dreams of Nobility

Recorded 03/25/2025.  "Waltz with Intrigue" features a theme that might evoke a noir spy mystery with a middle section full of twists and turns.  "Sketches for Piano" are original improvised compositions in a classical style created and performed in real time without editing.

SKETCHES 03 - Waltz with Intrigue

Recorded 04/20/2025 - Easter Sunday. "Theme and Variations: Harden Not Your Hearts" resembles typical "Theme and Variations" compositions by Beethoven or other Classic or Romantic composers. This theme is based on a phrase from a antiphon often heard in Lent which says, “If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts” (Hebrews 3:15 and Psalm 95:8). Unlike the other "Sketches" compositions, this piece was through-composed is not total improvisation. The piece was developed using improvisation, but the final composition was mapped and planned in advance. However, the performance is spontaneous and unedited.

SKETCHES 04 - Theme and Variations-Harden Not Your Heart

#5 Recorded 04/11/2025. "Tonal Patterns of Aggression" pulls together a series of rhythmic sequences with the forceful tone of expressionism using polytonality and dissonance. 

SKETCHES 05 - Tonal Patterns of Aggression

#21 Recorded 10-26-2025. "Lips, teeth, tip of the tongue" is a diction exercise many vocalists and actors use to warm up.  This piece employs a repeating and recurring spritely motif that spins through many keys trying to express what's just on the "Tip of the Tongue." This sketch was the genesis of #20 "Hey Ditty Ho (and tra-la-la!)" 

SKETCHES 21 -Tip of the Tongue

Pianist, Composer, Arranger, and a former Broadway and Off-Broadway stage performer and singer.

SKETCHES 21 -Tip of the Tongue

John Spalla, Pianist & Composer