On the High Seas | Sea Shanty for Solo Piano (Late Elementary)

On the High Seas — Brock Chart

On the High Seas is the perfect piece for students who love pirates, adventure, and sea shanties! Like several famous shanties, this piece features bold patterns in minor keys for the A sections, while the B section shifts to an uplifting major key. Written for late elementary students, it’s an energetic and story-driven work that captures the excitement of life at sea!

This piece reinforces I–IV–V chord patterns in the left hand while introducing easy dotted rhythms and expressive phrasing. Students will have opportunities to explore dynamics, articulation contrasts, and legato pedaling for wave-like effects. It’s sure to be a favorite at your next recital—especially for students who love musical storytelling.

🎵 About this piece:

• Level: Late Elementary
• Style: Sea Shanty / Folk Adventure
• Pedagogical focus: I–IV–V progressions, dotted rhythms, phrasing, dynamic contrast, and pedal technique
• Exploration: Try swaying your body or counting in 6/8 to feel the ocean motion. Practice playing the melody in both legato and detached styles for variety.
• Scan and Play: Scan QR code for MP3 recording

📚 Perfect for:

• Students who love pirate and adventure themes
• Recitals or group classes with storytelling repertoire
• Introducing chord progressions and expressive pedaling

🎵 Listen to this piece: