Murray McLachlan Introduces Piano Tales for Winnie-the-Pooh by Nikki Iles

As Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, and their companions turn one hundred, Nikki Iles offers young pianists a fresh musical doorway into the Hundred Acre Wood – one that is imaginative, characterful, and pedagogically astute in equal measure. 

Piano Tales Winnie the Pooh is a vibrantly characterful and appropriate contribution to the international celebrations that will occur in 2026, marking the centenary of A.A. Milne’s treasured Winnie the Pooh Stories.

In fact, this is the third volume in the acclaimed Piano Tales series (Initial to Grade 5) and follows the considerable success Iles and EVC achieved with Piano Tales for Alice (2018) and Piano Tales for Peter Pan (2020). Both have become favourites among teachers and students alike, with several pieces now appearing on major examination syllabuses.

Throughout the collection, Iles demonstrates a keen sensitivity to touch, texture, and pianistic development. ‘Sticky Fingers’ is a delightful micro-homage to Scott Joplin and the spirit of Ragtime, destined to be an immediate winner. ‘Tigger’s Bounce’ could be fabulous for instilling confidence and facility in the early stages of staccato technique. An energised etudette in leggiero playing.
In contrast.

‘Eeyore’s Lost Tail’ explores a bluesy melancholy through heavier textures in the instrument’s more resonant registers. An essay that cultivates expressivity and melancholy. ‘Wise Old Owl’ unfolds in smooth, flowing phrases that demand sustained listening and control of line. ‘Plucky Piglet’ is a gentle waltz that could encourage confidence in the use of the sustaining pedal.

‘Heffalump Stomp’ needs weight and swagger and encourages outgoing play in the most delightful way. Narrative imagination is central to the set. ‘Up, Up and Away’ uses rising glissandi to evoke Pooh’s ascent with the balloon, followed by a gentle descent as he floats back to earth. What a great way to introduce an exotic technique!

‘Thistledown’ drifts lightly between the hands, suggesting Eeyore’s quiet contemplation. Both ‘Farewell to Christopher Robin’ and the closing ‘The Hundred-Acre Wood’ are dreamlike and slightly mysterious, inviting young pianists to explore colour, pedalling and tonal nuance.