Classical Folk: 15 International Folk Songs.

Classical Folk: 15 International Folk Songs, arranged by Phillip Keveren. Hal Leonard Corporation (7777 W. Bluemound Rd., P.O. Box 13819, Milwaukee, WI 53213), 2006. 56pp. $10.95

Every piano teacher comes across the following two types of students at some point: A, the intelligent and eager intermediate adult student who wants to play for personal enjoyment, and B, the teenager who is bored with almost everything assigned and would prefer pop music. It seems rare to find pieces that satisfy these students without compromising the pedagogical intentions we have as teachers.

Classical Folk: 15 International Folksongs arranged by Phillip Keveren strikes a balance between overall appeal, musicianship and musical challenges to satiate both students and teachers at the affordable price of $10.95.

Unlike many collections, where only a few pieces are accessible, there is no "dead weight" to speak of because of Keveren's tasteful arrangements. The average length of most pieces is about three pages, which provides realistic goals for busy students. The first piece, "Bamboo Flute" has a wonderful departure from the typical melody over a boring five-finger position accompaniment. The pedaling requirements are not too demanding and arranged such that the pianist can enjoy the rich full sound of long melody over interesting ostinato patterns. "Jacob's Ladder" is another short piece with only two pages. The rhythm is easy but the challenge lies in phrasing the rich harmonies.

The longest of Keveren's arrangements, "Frere Jacques (Are You Sleeping?)" requires the pianist to master a few styles. Written in a theme and variation form, the whole piece reminds listeners of several movements of Schumann's Album for the Young, Op. 68. The first variations simplistic song-like texture is comparable to "Melodie" from Op. 68. The second variation changes meter and switches to a romantic-period-style long line. Keveren does not hesitate to write in several keys and meters while venturing into march styles and the scherzo/hunting song meter of six/eight.

The lesser-known folk songs like "The Galway Piper" and "O Waly Waly" still prove Kevereffs talent for beautiful melody over interesting accompaniments. Keveren's goal of arranging folk music in a wide variety of styles gives pianists a well-rounded collection of beautiful late intermediate/early advanced solos. Piano teachers now have another great book to add to their collection of supplementary and recital pieces because these arrangements stand out and motivate students. Reviewed by Norom Bou, Princeton, New Jersey