Classical Theme Duets: 8 Beloved Masterworks.

* Classical Theme Duets: 8 Beloved Masterworks, arranged by Phillip Keveren. Hal Leonard Corporation (www.musicdispatch.com; [phone]), 2007. 62pp. $9.95

This collection of well-known pieces provides some fresh arrangements of themes that intermediate students may recognize. The page is formatted in very large notation, with the primo and secondo parts stacked one on another, rather than the more traditional right-page primo/left-page secondo setting. Although this layout makes tricky rhythm passages easier to visually assemble, it and the print size limit the number of systems per page and thus demand many inconvenient page turns.

Among the best-sounding selections are the Beethoven Fifth Symphony, first movement excerpt and the "Borodin Polovetsian Dance." Both have good orchestral sound while remaining loyal to the early-intermediate level suggested by the publication. The Bizet "Habenera" from Carmen is rhythmically challenging in the primo, while the secondo is entirely repetitious without ever having the melody. Gounod's "Funeral March of a Marionette" is the shortest of the selections and effective; the primo has the only melodic elements. Weakest of the arrangements is the excerpt of Mozart's G Minor Symphony; although the voicing sounds full, the transitions and ending are not musically satisfying. The Tchaikovsky "Russian Dance (Trepak)" will provide much entertaining rehearsal for the performers, although a simple repeat of the A section would have eliminated one of the cumbersome page turns. This is probably the most difficult of the pieces in the volume.

Keveren has both found appealing selections and created tasty arrangements in this volume. For the early to mid-intermediate piano duo, it will provide enjoyable yet challenging repertoire and a positive ensemble experience.--Reviewed by Janice Wenger, NCTM, University of Missouri-Columbia

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