Staff Picks: August 2025
Our Sheet Music Direct team plays, strums and sings just as much as you do! We're a team of musicians who love music of various styles and, when we're not busy with all things Sheet Music Direct, play at home, church, and gigs. Each month, we're sharing some of the favorite songs we're currently playing and why we think you'll love them too. Check out our August picks below or head over to our Staff Picks page which we update regularly with the latest picks.
Find something you love? Let us know in the comments, or share it with the rest of the Sheet Music Direct community over on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Mysha's Pick
The Subway, Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan's latest release is a nice contrast to the huge pop sound she's usually known for. She first debuted "The Subway" live last year, and it's finally out as a studio track which I've been enjoying listening - definitely worth a play if you're into the slower, more stripped-back side of her music.
Annie's Pick
Strangers Like Me (from Tarzan), Phil Collins
While I was browsing Piano Solo arrangements, I ran into this Disney Peaceful Piano Solos - Book 2, which is a great collection of relaxed Disney arrangements. I really enjoyed this arrangement of "Strangers Like Me" from Tarzan, and it feels so nostalgic to listen to and play.
Joe's Pick
Tough Luck, Laufey
Laufey is an Icelandic singer-songwriter who has been gradually rising over the past few years. She draws influences from jazz and pop standards, classical, and bossa nova, combining these with modern pop sensibilities. Despite this pitch sounding entirely up my street, it took me a very long time to get into her music – safe to say, I'm on board now. "Tough Luck" is a single off of the upcoming A Matter of Time album, a perfect song to learn ahead of the album's release on August 22nd.
Jacklyn's Pick
A Window to the Past (from Harry Potter And The Prisoner of Azkaban), John Williams
I've recently been learning to play this hauntingly beautiful melody on the piano — not just because I'm a die-hard Harry Potter fan, but because there's something deeply emotional and reflective about it that really resonates with me. Out of all the books and films, The Prisoner of Azkaban has always been my favorite. It marks a turning point in the series — the moment Harry begins uncovering the truth about his past and his parents. I connected with that journey on a personal level. At Harry's age, I also found myself searching for answers about my own story. John Williams captures that sense of nostalgia and longing perfectly in this piece. Every time I play it, it feels like opening a memory — quiet, introspective, and full of meaning.
Sam's Pick
What Have I Done to Deserve This?, Pet Shop Boys
There's always something sentimental about hearing songs that were a part of your childhood, and there's no group I heard more of growing up than the Pet Shop Boys, being my dad's favorite pop duo. "What Have I Done to Deserve This?" is a particular favorite of mine, only enhanced by the timeless vocals of Dusty Springfield on the bridge.
Jill's Pick
Dawn (from Pride and Prejudice), Dario Marianelli
My book club recently reread Pride and Prejudice in honor of the 2005 film's 20th anniversary. Of course, I took the opportunity to rewatch the film (and the 1995 miniseries) in anticipation of the forthcoming Netflix adaptation. I love both versions but there's definitely something magical in Dario Marianelli's piano score. Unfortunately, much like Elizabeth Bennet, I'm a [ahem] modestly skilled pianist.
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