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Review by Michael Bassett
This is a challenging collection of
original compositions. Overall it requires a high degree of
technique and competence for its accurate execution.
The tuning signal, given on both discs,
is of adequate length.
Initially listening to the Complete
disc provides a very good exercise in concentrated counting and part
reading prior to venturing into the Minus One disc.
One or two of the pieces do not have a
tempo indication. Is this intentional or does the title indicate
the speed apart from the preceding beats?
It is a rewarding experience playing the
wide range of styles which these compositions have to offer.
The most difficult section for myself
was the guitar accompanied one with its Latin American rhythms, but I
have never been immersed in this style, but it slowly paid off as I
narrowed the time lapses down here and there eventually after a few
attempts; bars ahead or bars behind but endeavouring to head towards a
level finish!
No.'s 12-18 were a refreshing "Pastiche"
style after the Latin American opening pieces, especially in their
duet form and graduated degree of difficulty.
The trio group 19-21 "Children's Suite";
delightfully contrasted pieces. Toy Soldier Serenade keeping you
on the march with strict counting and varied changes of tempi.
The hazy mood of Quiet Falls the Snow with its surprising key change
(F# minor) and Dancing Doll almost exhaustingly "Coppelia"
like in its Moto Perpetuo mood. ALL very absorbing and fun to
play.
The quartet section:- Frog Dance with
its leaping themes would not be amiss in a Beatrix Potter production.
The English Waltz (very laid back mood. Afternoon tea music at
Betty's?) requiring much skill in keeping the tempi and rits well
balanced there being no way of having "eye contact"; only audio.
And Spinning Top Waltz (no tempo indication) like Dancing Doll to keep
you on your toes.
Nandy, the Sleepy Cat. Quintet. Has a
nice gentle purring quality about it and this feline creature is
certainly not in deep sleep; perhaps having one eye open; cat-napping,
but you could find yourself asleep if not carefully counting and
concentrating on the minims in bars 34 to 73.
The album ends with a "Little Tango" (no
tempo indicated) which brings us quietly back full circle to which the
album/disc opened.
In general I found it easier to play
along wearing headphones especially in the more rhythmically complex
pieces (guitar/recorder). (But that might just be my problem in
getting to grips with syncopation.) |
