Fast Track Solos: Dazzling and Daring Piano Solos, Books 1-4.

* Fast Track Solos: Dazzling and Daring Piano Solos, Books 1-4, compiled and edited by Janet Vogt. Heritage Music Press c/o The Lorenz Corp. (P.O. Box 802, Dayton, OH 45401), 2006. 32 pp. $6.95 each.

This set of four books announces in the foreword that it aims to please ... and it certainly does! The selections are geared to "dazzle and dare" with recital appeal. With their larger print, easy spacing, well-thought out editing and dynamics, they are perfect supplement teaching material. As pointed out by the composer-editor Janet Vogt, all students love to play fast. It is especially note-worthy when young students find that not only can their fingers fly, but they can do so with ease. This set of books allows that, and is fun for the presenting teacher as well.

Book 1: Easy, by Martha Sherrill Kelsey, Donna McFarland, Steve Nehrenberg and Janet Vogt. This book contains first year pieces in fixed-hand position with occasional cross-hand, pedal and easy-to-follow dynamics. An plus is catchy lyrics and optional duet parts for larger print will appeal and the student can achieve beginner facility.

Book 2: Moderately Easy, by Martha Sherrill Kelsey, Donna McFarland, Steve Nehrenberg, Kristeen Polhamus and Janet Vogt. In this set the student moves away from fixed position but not far enough to be disturbing. One sharp and one flat with accidentals are introduced and the student experiments with phrasing, touches and color changes. Due to the ingenuity of the composers, these selections allow for fast freedom.

Book 3: Early Intermediate, by Martha Sherrill Kelsey, Donna McFarland, Steve Nehrenberg, Kristeen Polhamus and Janet Vogt. Selections move easily within a four-octave range. Key signatures only expand to two sharps and two flats (big selling point with most students, alas) with chords, chromatic scale and syncopation introduced gently. Technically, the student will stretch, but enjoy the entire process. There is a challenge for long phrasing and musical shaping, a chance for beginner artistry. Thanks to the fine composers.

Book 4: Intermediate, by Martha Sherrill Kelsey and Janet Vogt. This is an appealing group for the pre-teen and teenage years. This set will work with octaves, fast cross-overs and lefth-and jump skills. "Dance of the Jugglers" has recurrent cluster patterns that allow for speed and easy memory. "Spanish Story," a mini-suite with its two pieces makes great recital fare. The final selection, "Scherzando Suite," requires a certain amount of melodic control and rhythmic precision, but again the dazzle and sparkle are there. Have fun! Reviewed by Faye Bonner, Potomac, Maryland.

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