Cloud Gazing, Level Three.

Cloud Gazing, Level Three, by Lisa Bastien. Neil A. Kjos Music Co., (4,380 Jutland Dr., San Diego, CA 92117), 2005. 4 pp. $2.95.

Cloud Gazing is a lovely, "Disneyesque" early-intermediate piano solo. The melody in the A section is mostly made up of arpeggiated chords. The left hand is largely stable, while the right hand is responsible for the motion. The regular use of syncopation creates momentum and flow.

The harmonies in the A section are pretty but predictable (again, think Disney). The B section adds some intriguing harmonic interest, as well as a more defined melody for some nice contrast.

Technically, there are some well-structured, solid challenges. There's a hand position change at measure 4 that prepares the student for a more difficult jump (same notes in a higher register) in measure 9. The left hand in the B section includes sevenths and octaves followed by cross-overs with the third finger. The right hand is reading up to three leger lines.

There are two instances where the pedal should lift at the syncopation--that could be a bit of a challenge, and an important one, as the sound would be terribly muddy if the pedal were late. The ending involves handover-hand maneuvers.

A warm legato tone will be required for full effectiveness. Dynamic markings are few, but the shaping is obvious and inherent in these phrases. I'd certainly encourage students to go beyond the "mf" and "mp" markings given. For the most part, this is terrific for students who enjoy pretty, "dreamy" pieces. Reviewed by Deanna Walker, NCTM, Nashville, Tennessee.