Nocturnes, Book 1: 8 Romantic-Style Solos for Piano. By Dennis Alexander. Nocturnes represent quiet and meditative night music. Typically found in nocturnes are lyrical melodic lines, beautiful harmonies, and left-hand arpeggiated accompaniment patterns. Each nocturne in this collection has these qualities along with their own unique character, mood, and sophisticated sound. The pieces are meant to encourage students to better understand the beauty and elegance of the Romantic-period style.