In Recital Throughout the Year (with Performance Strategies).

In Recital Throughout the Year (with Performance Strategies) Volume 1, Books 1 & 2 (w/CDs), by Helen Marlais. The FJH Music Company, Inc. (Westport Business Park, 2525 Davie Rd., Ste. 360, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317), 2004. 35 pp. $6.95. Beginners.

In these two volumes we find tips that can help kids who are just starting out playing their instruments or who are just a little further along, prepare for their first recitals--we all can remember how fun and scary that could be. And what fun to come across "The Two-Headed Monster" that we are to render "in a bad mood." Along with such newly composed pieces, there are arrangements of Beethoven, Smetana and other romantics' memorable melodies, holiday pieces for the Fourth of July, Halloween and Christmas, too. "Jingle Bells" is particularly nifty in a pop-style harmony.

Each volume contains nine pieces, all long enough to spotlight the soloist in recital. Quite a few of these pieces are enhanced with optional accompaniments for the teacher. The spacious pages help our eyes and fingers concentrate on each note, dynamic and other markings. Given the pieces, friendly texts and CDs, this publication should help young piano students focus on performing in recital, a goal that can begin with just playing for "stuffed animals or a family pet." Overall, we can expect an approach that is mainstream with some very nice touches, twists and surprises. Reviewed by David Patterson, Boston, Massachusetts.