Level: NEW! Intermediate
Key: C Major (with adventurous excursions)
Meter: 4/4
Format: Piano Duet (Primo & Secondo)
Includes: Separate recordings for both parts

NOTE: Per request, the original “Lunar Flyby” duet for Late Intermediate players is now available for intermediate players.

It sounds pretty much the same with a few omissions: no octave reaches, no quarter note triplets, not as many chromatic triads, and fewer notes to grab per beat.

Suggested fingering is included. The music requires many hand shifts, so be ready to “pick up and move over!”

What does it sound like to leave Earth…circle the moon…and return home?

The original late-intermediate “Lunar Flyby” was inspired by the breathtaking journey of the Artemis II mission. Watching the spacecraft descend—protected by heat shields enduring 5,000 degrees, guided by parachutes, and landing with astonishing precision—was nothing short of mesmerizing. Even more captivating were the images from the far side of the moon. Those moments found their way to the piano.

About the Music

This duet was designed to capture both the power of takeoff and the weightless wonder of space travel.

• A strong, rhythmic opening evokes launch energy

• Flowing patterns and textures suggest orbit and motion

• Harmonic shifts and accidentals mirror the unpredictability of space

• Expansive textures create a full, cinematic sound—best experienced as a duet

Though written in C Major, the piece ventures beyond that key for tonal color without feeling overwhelmed.

What makes it appealing

• Accessible challenge for intermediate to late-intermediate pianists

• Engaging ensemble experience with balanced, rewarding parts

• Teachable moments in coordination, rhythm, and harmonic awareness

• Perfect for recitals or themed programming (space, imagination, storytelling)

Practice Support

Both primo and secondo recordings are included to support learning and rehearsal.

Each track begins with four steady pulses on C—a simple, reliable way to count in and stay together.

A Note from the Composer

This piece is more than a duet—it’s a musical journey.

I hope you and your duet partner feel the wonder, curiosity, and awe of traveling to the moon and back…all from the piano bench.

Engaging ensemble experience with balanced, rewarding parts.