Alexander's Ragtime Band.

(for two pianos, four hands), by Irving Berlin. Arranged by Don Heitler and Jim Lyke. Belwin Mills/Warner Bros. (15800 N. W. 48th Ave., Miami, FL 33014), 2002. 12 pp., $5.95. Late intermediate.

With the title Alexander's Ragtime Band and a tempo marking of moderato, you can count on match-like characteristics and syncopations to permeate this charming arrangement by Don Heitler and Jim Lyke. Two copies of the full score are included.

This two-piano, four-hands duet opens with a simple melody in the Piano I part over a "boom-chuck" accompaniment played by Piano II. As the piece progresses, the melody becomes more involved while the accompaniment remains consistent with that of the opening. Via a cut-time interlude, Piano I marches down the keyboard in octaves, and Piano II, also in octaves, marches upward. This prepares efficiently for the second half of the duet in which Piano II plays the melody and Piano I accompanies. The quick and dean exchange allows both partners the opportunity to balance their parts in two different manners. The selection travels through the keys of C, F and G majors and climaxes with a barrage of dotted-rhythm chords in both parts, finally ending on forte staccato chords and octaves.

For the majority of this duet, both parts are quite pianistic. However, when the chordal melody is doubled in both hands, the left-hand part can be difficult to navigate cleanly. Duet partners must choreograph page turns carefully to leave out a minimum of notes, which can be quite noticeable in an arrangement like this. The frequent dotted rhythms and minimal pedal use keep the piece light.

This is an ideal piece for late-intermediate duet partners or a student and teacher duet. The arrangement is easy to listen to and would certainly be a great recital or festival selection. Reviewed by Melody Hanberry, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.