“Opening” is the piece pianist/composer Matt Johnson has used for many years to open his concerts (hence the title! Perceptive, aren’t I?). Recently recorded and released as a solo piano single, the copyright date for the sheet music is 1986. The piece demonstrates a variety of the influences that have shaped Johnson’s music over the years - classical, jazz, a little pop and a little rock - and I can easily see why it is a great piece to begin a concert with. Lively, playful and showy, I would think “Opening” would put both the artist and the audience into a very positive, upbeat frame of mind. Overflowing with joy and excitement, it is sure to bring a smile!

As I mentioned, sheet music is available, but it isn’t easy. More advanced pianists will have a great time learning to play this piece, adding their own embellishments (or simplifications) as desired. Johnson offers all of his recordings and sheet music as free downloads on his website, so it won’t cost anything to check it out and give it a try. The recording of “Opening” is also available for sale from Amazon, iTunes and CD Baby as well as many streaming sites.