Pointers for the Pedal was composed between 1990 and 1992, and was first published by the Boston Music Company. It is now available through the current publisher, Hal Leonard, and other music dealers

(See below for descriptions and first lines of each piece in "Pointers for the Pedal".)

"Three Voice Prelude for Two Fingers"

This étude (two lines long) requires what is known as "syncopated" pedaling. The "Pointer" for this piece gives directions for carrying out this kind of pedaling and explains some related terminology. It is probably easiest to teach this étude by rote, and to leave out the top voice entirely at first.

"March of the Goblins"

This étude (three lines long) requires what is known as "rhythmic" pedaling. The "Pointer" for this piece describes when to use this fairly easy kind of pedaling, and calls attention to the relationship between notation and gesture.

"Shadow of a Dance"

This étude (three lines long) requires delayed pedal changes. The "Pointer" preceding the étude takes note of the effect that occurs when a pedal change is delayed.

"Reeling with Color"

This etude (two pages long) requires changing the pedal while playing fast legato notes with the fingers. The "Pointer" for the piece gives advice for pedaling under such circumstances, and also calls attention to appropriate pedal use while making a crescendo or diminuendo. In addition, the "Pointer" mentions pedaling in relation to the style of the music.

"Fanfare in the Rain"

The "Pointer" for this étude (1½ pages long) calls attention to how the notation for the pedal in the score, if carried out correctly, helps create the picture described in the étude's title.

"Night in the Jungle"

The "Pointer" for this étude (1½ pages long), which uses avant-garde techniques, invites the student to listen to a number of special effects created by different kinds of pedal use. This piece is particularly effective on student recitals, especially if performed dramatically and with large dynamic contrasts.

"From a Distant Land"

This étude (1½ pages long) requires skill in avoiding unwanted pedal blurs. The "Pointer" for this étude emphasizes listening, and calls attention to the relationship between notation and actual pedaling.

"Keepsake from a Loved One"

This étude (three lines long) requires a rarely-used kind of pedaling that is explained in the "Pointer" that precedes it.