REVIEWS

String Orchestra parts. Hopefully, this fine edition will bring sostenuto. A beautiful heavenly section (with
new attention to this special piece of music. solo players) leads to the allegro moderato
A PRAYER FOR PEACE (Gr. 3 String A. L. C. with the menacing sound of the basses playing
Orchestra). Hebrew Folk Song, arr. David an ostinato. This is followed by a triumphant
Bobrowitz. Southern Music, 2021, $40. FIDDLE TUNES: IRISH MUSIC FOR allegro which is rhythmic in nature and leads
STRINGS (Gr. 3, String Orchestra). George to the beautiful hymn tune in the violins. The
This arrangement of a traditional Hebrew
Speckert. Bärenreiter, 2020, €14.95. lower strings continue the rhythmic tension.
tune is an upbeat, lyrical piece for a string
orchestra. The Hebrew prayer reads: “May Students are always excited to play Irish The last section is also triumphant and
He who makes peace in the Heavens, grant fiddle music, and Speckert’s fun and resolves in a joyful conclusion.
peace to us and to all our people; let us say, accessible work will not disappoint. Fiddle Among the skills students are learning
Amen.” It would be a wonderful addition to Tunes is a delightful work for a level 2 or and working on in this piece are
create an inclusive and multicultural concert. 3 student quartet or string ensemble. Six syncopation, tremelo, and tone quality.
The piece includes augmented seconds but short, contrasting movements create interest This piece is an excellent source of working
is easily accessible for a mid-level orchestra. and pedagogical variety, and the flexible on tone production and sound, as well
It is perfect for working on lyrical phrasing, instrumentation provides practical options. as phrasing and dynamic contrasts. The
vibrato, and rich tone. The bass section The first movement, “A Lovely Lass,” opens highest note in the first violins is an E,
maintains the pulse while the rest of the with a simple G major melody trading fifth position above the staff, that could
strings play on the offbeat, so it is important between the viola and first violin part. The possibly be reached with an extension. The
to have a solid bass, or cello section to play accompaniment alternates between repeated rest of the parts are easily played in the
that part. The piece also has an optional part bowed patterns and pizzicato. The second first three positions. This arrangement is
for tambourine. R. A. H. movement switches to 6/8, and each part beautifully done. The intensity of the music
must negotiate dotted rhythms. “Quiet and the joy of the original work are all here.
ANDANTE FESTIVO (Gr. 3, String Sailing Waters” is one of the most accessible Additionally, it is great to expose student
Orchestra, Timpani). Jean Sibelius, arr. movements, featuring a simple melody in musicians to the power of music in our
James Richards. Galaxy Music, 2020, $45. the first violin part and quarter notes and lives. This immense expression of freedom
Sibelius’ one movement Andante Festivo half notes in the other voices. The first violin is universal. G. P.
is a beautiful and accessible work for part could easily be performed in either
intermediate, advanced, and professional first or third position. The fifth movement, PIZZICATO PUSH-UPS (Beginner, String
level string ensembles. Sibelius originally “Foggy Dew,” gives each instrument the Orchestra). Allison Buettner. Southern
wrote the composition for string quartet opportunity to showcase the melody. The Music, 2020, $40.
but rescored it for string orchestra and accompaniment includes ties and entrances This short elementary work could be your
timpani over a decade later in the 1930s. The on off-beats to create rhythmic interest. The orchestra’s very first concert piece! As the
original string quartet version of the work work concludes with an exciting flourish. name indicates, no bows are needed. Only
was performed at Sibelius’ funeral. Although “With Spirit” includes the most technically the D scale is necessary! The first violins are
Richards’ edition is geared toward the challenging material in the piece since both an independent part. Second violins and
intermediate-level orchestra classroom, the first and second violins have a few repeated violas double a part which can be especially
music itself is both timeless and ageless. The passages in fourth position. A col legno useful if you are low in number in your
rich tone poem is very simple in some ways; figure and open string double stops add to viola section. Cello and bass are in octaves.
the instruments move rhythmically together the festive mood of the finale. Fiddle Tunes There is alternate third position fingering
for much of the work. There are limited is a lovely work that will appeal to less for bass if that would be helpful for your
demands on left-hand technique. Indeed, advanced student ensembles. A. L. C. group. There is also a piano part included for
the violas and second violins can choose rehearsals only. The entire piece is quarter
to perform their parts without leaving first FINLANDIA, OP. 26 (Gr. 4, String notes, quarter rests, and half rests. Dynamics
position. However, the musical challenges Orchestra). Jean Sibelius, arr. Lynne include forte and piano only. Crescendos
should not be underestimated. Students will Latham. Southern Music, 2021, $50. or decrescendos could be added for fun in
need to work on creating long musical lines, The Finnish tone poem Finlandia was rehearsal or performance, if desired. There
consistent vibrato, and varied dynamics. The composed by Jan Sibelius in 1899, as a veiled is a fun ostinato “motor” that goes along
composition provides many opportunities protest the prevailing presence of censorship under the melody. The students will have
to discuss the practical application of bow by the Russian Empire. To disguise its true fun picking it out and helping to accompany
distribution, sounding point, and bow speed nature, it was first performed under different the melody whenever it is found in their
in the creation of beautiful musical phrases. names. In this passionate work, the struggle part. This is a cute and simple piece that will
Fortunately, Richards’ edition includes of the Finnish people is depicted, and the delight students and help motivate them
detailed phrase markings, bowings, and beautiful hymn in the center of the work was that they can perform! And I believe that the
dynamics; these provide specific guidance an original composition of the composer. audience will be equally delighted to hear
for students and teachers. The score can be This arrangement opens with an intense their young musicians performing—perhaps
purchased on its own or as a full set with roar, beginning in the lower strings, andante for the very first time! L. J.

American String Teacher

Vol. 71, No. 4, November 2021, pp. 54­–60
DOI: 10.1177/00031313211051093
Article reuse guidelines: sagepub.com/journals-permissions
54 | American String Teacher | November 2021 Copyright © 2021, American String Teachers Association
 Reviews

STRING JAMS (Gr. 2-6, Violin, Viola, can be extra challenging. Violins especially musical images of effortless soaring are
Cello). Bryan Charles Wilson. Published will need to be secure with chromatic as exhilarating for the audience as they
by the Composer, 2020, Beginner $35, scale fingering. All parts contain lots of are for the players! This piece is a total of
Advanced $45. accidentals. This piece incorporates both 176 measures and lasts 5:30 minutes. The
Composer and cellist Bryan Charles Wilson arco and pizzicato in all parts. Dynamics first violin part goes to fifth position as
has written a series of books entitled String range from piano to forte. Accents, slurs, written, with an optional octave higher
Jams. These fun tunes are cleverly written staccato, and spiccato are found all part that will take your highflyers to eighth
and arranged to make playing various styles throughout and add so much interest. If this position if they are ready. The violas go
of music more accessible to young people. is not a piece you are familiar with, you need to an F, which can be done in second or
Among the genres explored are hip-hop, to be! It would be great for any concert, but third position, while the second violins,
reggae, Latin, Motown, and country. Each perhaps especially for a Halloween concert cellos, and basses must all go into fifth
series, beginning and advanced, includes as the chromatics give it a spooky flavor! position. String bowings and techniques
in the price of the packet not only the sheet Make sure it is programmed for your next include legato, detaché, pizzicato, staccato,
music but also backing tracks, improvisation high school or community string orchestra trills, and accents. Wind instrumentation
approaches, a loop track for the concert! L. J. is one piccolo, two flutes, one oboe, one
improvisation sections, and recordings by English horn, first to third clarinets, two
WISH LISZT (Gr. 3). Franz Liszt and Paul
the composer. The tunes have catchy names, bassoons, first and second horn, first to
O’Neill, arr. Bob Phillips. Belwin Orchestra/
including “Chili Dog Strings” (reggae) and third trumpet, first to third trombone, and
Alfred Music, 2004, $61.
“Jaw Crusher” (hard rock) in the beginner tuba. Wind parts are very playable for high
book, and “Max Tubular” (1980s) and Based on the Franz Liszt Hungarian school students, though there are some
“Guap” (hip-hop) in the advanced book. Rhapsody No. 2 and from the fabulous tricky passages that require expert rhythm
Easy to follow instructions for student Trans-Siberian Orchestra show “A Lost counting. There are three percussion
musicians is included in the sheet music. Christmas Eve,” this piece will rock any parts that include snare, three suspended
There are examples of scales, arpeggios, concert (not just a holiday one). Although cymbals, hi-hat cymbals, three tom-toms,
and patterns to practice and prepare. For greatly enhanced by adding a rhythm section bass drum, and chimes. There is also a
any teacher looking to give your ensemble and electric instruments, the piece can be timpani part, a piano part, and a synthesizer
a boost by learning music with alternative played by strings alone. An optional electric part for a harp patch, but could be played by
styles, this series is easy to follow and a violin part provides the perfect spot to marimba. Rhythms range from whole notes
lot of fun. It can be an effective method feature an electric instrument. This 2/4 piece to sixteenth notes and dynamics range from
both in the classroom and in a group class. is in G minor with 222 measures and lasting piano to fortississimo. The music starts out
With examples played by the composer on 3:35 minutes. The tempo is allegro with the sounding almost “western” with a strong,
the videos, students should find the songs quarter note equaling 124, slowing down to open chord introduction. The straight mutes
easy to follow. I hope you and your student 117 for the dramatic ending, and dynamics used by trumpets also hint to that genre,
musicians enjoy this detailed and wonderful range only from forte to fortissimo. First but the piece moves into a beautiful soaring
series. Learning how to play so many kinds and second violins must go up into fourth sound that is a musical representation of
of music was never so fun! G. P. position, basses go up to a middle C, and flying. This will bring out the best your
viola and celli stay in first position. Bowings orchestra has to give! N. C.
WALTZ FROM MASQUERADE SUITE (Gr. 4, and techniques include legato, detaché,
String Orchestra). Aram Khachaturian, arr. staccato, tenuto, and accents, and rhythms
Lynne Latham. Southern Music, 2020, $75. range from sixteenth notes to half notes. Chamber Ensemble
This is sure to be a favorite! It will be There is also a fairly difficult piano part
challenging, but so much fun at the same included that would be great to challenge a MELODIES FOR ROBERT (Gr. 4.5, for Flute,
time. It is a great piece to work on intervals pianist at your school or in the community. Cello & Piano). Carter Pann. Theodore
and chromatic fingering and scales. This is This is a rockin’ version of the Hungarian Presser Company, 2018, $15.
abridged from the original work and omits Rhapsody, but beware, this is not your Following their world premiere, The Heare
the middle section. The first violins will need grandfather’s Liszt music! N. C. Ensemble proclaimed, “Melodies for Robert
to be confident in all positions. The second contains rich harmonies, soaring melodies,
violins will need to be comfortable in fifth Full Orchestra and unexpected twists, but beyond the
position. Violas will need to be confident musical elements, it also has incredible depth
in third position, as will the cellos in fifth FLYING (Gr. 3.5, Full Orchestra). Reynard of soul. Like so much of Carter’s music, it
position. There are lots of articulations that Burns. Belwin Orchestra/Alfred Music, paints the heart of the American landscape
are clearly marked. Dynamics, bowings, 2002, $70. and makes you yearn for more.” Melodies for
divisi, are also clearly laid out. Rhythms are This joyous and radiant work was the 2001 Robert was commissioned by the SDG Music
tricky and may require some extra attention. winner of the American String Teachers Foundation in memory of flutist Robert
There are a lot of sixteenth notes, but also a Association/National School Orchestra Vincent Jones; it consists of two movements
lot of off-beats for accompanying voices that Association composition contest. The entitled “Sing” and “Listen.”

WWW.ASTASTRINGS.ORG | 55
Reviews

The first movement, “Sing,” is thirty- provides a variety of rhythmic interest. opening of the fugue after the initial
three measures long, with the tempo Prelude Variations would be a beautiful upbeat: two half steps separated by a third.
starting at quarter note equaling 52 beats addition to any recital program. A. L. C. Beethoven uses this motivic idea to fan out
per minute (bpm), moves to 60 and 66 to the tonal centers of the various sections
bpm, then back to 60 and ends at 52 again. STRING QUARTET IN C-SHARP MINOR, of the fugue, from the tonic of C sharp.
The second movement, “Listen,” is 128 OP. 131 (String Quartet, Violin, Viola, C sharp minor moves up by second to D
measures, with the tempo of 88 bpm and Cello). Ludwig van Beethoven, ed. major, then down a second to B minor.
after some slowdowns and speed ups, Jonathan Del Mar. Bärenreiter, 2021, This is followed by movement down a
moves up to 92 bpm before slowing down $35 (Parts). third from C sharp to A major, up a third
for the last two measures. The cello part Ludwig van Beethoven’s String Quartet No. to E major, and finally down a fourth to
goes into both treble and tenor clefs, with 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 131, is the fourth G sharp minor. These five tonal areas are
the highest note being an Eb an octave and in order of composition of his five late then used as the respective keys of the
a third above middle C. String bowings string quartets. The late quartets—opuses following five movements before returning
and techniques include legato, detaché, 127, 130, 131, 132, 135—were composed to C sharp minor for the finale. Beethoven
tenuto, and grace notes. The time signature between 1824 and Beethoven’s death in uses his intervallic cells and relationships
includes 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, and 3/8, and 1827. Other notable masterpieces from melodically, structurally (within
the key signature no sharps or flats, but this period include the Missa solemnis movements and between movements)
there are accidentals throughout the piece. and the Symphony No. 9. Beethoven’s and harmonically, in a score whose
Rhythms range from whole notes to thirty- sixteen string quartets form the core of organic complexity continues to challenge
second notes, including some triplets, and his creative output, alongside the piano musicians and audiences.
dynamics range from pianissimo to forte. sonatas and symphonies. The quartets Beethoven was quoted as saying this was
The entire piece lasts nine minutes. This trace Beethoven’s development through his his favorite of his late quartets and said it
is a beautifully sweet and poignant piece early, middle, and late stylistic periods. The exhibited “a new manner of part-writing
that would be a beautiful addition to any late quartets demonstrate an expansion in and, thank God, less lack of imagination
concert setting. N. C. form, a freedom in the use of compositional than before.” Schubert remarked upon
structures, an intricacy of cellular and hearing a performance of this work: “After
PRELUDE VARIATIONS (String Duet,
harmonic development and unification, and this, what is left for us to write?” In 1828,
Violin/Viola, Violin/Cello, Viola/Cello).
a spiritual depth which set them apart from Schubert requested a performance of this
Elena Ruehr. E. C. Schirmer Music
the rest of the string quartet repertoire. quartet while on his death bed. It could
Company, 2020, $16.
The String Quartet No 14 in C-sharp be argued that none of the Romantics
Elena Ruehr’s Prelude Variations is inspired
minor, Op. 131, was composed immediately were able to build on the overwhelming
by two preludes from Bach’s The Well-
after the String Quartet No. 13 in B-flat challenge posed by Beethoven’s
Tempered Clavier. This lyrical, single-
major, Op. 130, with which it shares accomplishment in his late quartets. It
movement composition is available for
several structural similarities. The String was not until the twentieth century that
several different instrument combinations
Quartet in B-flat begins with five shorter composers like Béla Bartók were able to
including violin and viola duet, viola and
movements before concluding (in its reconcile Beethoven’s achievements within
cello duet, and violin and cello duet. It
original form) with the Grosse Fugue, which their own string quartets.
is a harmonically rich composition with
beautiful melodies and interesting interplay summarizes all the cellular and harmonic This new Bärenreiter edition was edited
between the instruments. Although the work relationships of the previous movements. from a variety of primary sources. The
is based on music by Bach, it is clearly a The String Quartet in C-sharp minor parts are beautifully printed and easy
contemporary composition with moments reverses this formal plan by beginning with to read. This new edition continues
of dissonant exploration. Prelude Variations a fugue which contains all the harmonic Bärenreiter’s tradition of excellence and will
is technically accessible for an advanced and cellular material that is then used in be of great value for musicians interested
high school string player or intermediate- the remaining six movements. In addition, in this masterpiece of the string quartet
level music major. The melodies require a the seven movements of the String Quartet repertoire. P. C.
fully developed vibrato, and the challenging in C-sharp minor are played segue without
accidentals necessitate extensive shifting interruption. Movement 1 (fugue), TREE HOUSE (Gr. 2.5, String Orchestra,
in the lower positions for all instruments. movement 4 (theme and variations), Piano). Yukiko Nishimura. Southern Music,
The cello part requires fluency in tenor clef and movement 7 (sonata form) are the 2020, $8.
and the frequent use of extensions. Double pillars upon which the structure is built. Tree House is an appealing, lyrical, single-
stops in the middle of the duet provide an These three movements also use the three movement work in G major for student
opportunity to work on tuning dissonant formal genres that were most influential in string ensembles. Lovely melody lines are
intervals between instruments. Each Beethoven’s creative output. passed to each instrument, allowing all
performer has an opportunity to perform Harmonically, the entire work is derived members of the ensemble an opportunity
melodic material and the 6/8 time signature from the intervallic relationships of the to develop long, singing bows. The long,

56 | American String Teacher | November 2021

 Reviews

held notes provide a counting challenge as A TUNES: CAPRICIOUS PIECES FOR The work and practice required to learn
well as a bow control challenge. Students BEGINNER VIOLINISTS (Violin Solo). Elaine this piece will pay off. The first movement,
will encounter many opportunities to Fine. Mel Bay Publications, 2021, $12.99. “Allegro, ma non troppo,” has several tempo
work on bow division, bow distribution, A Tunes is a collection of twenty pieces changes requiring a very mature player.
and bow speed. Slurred notes in groups designed to complement the well-known Dynamics range from pianississimo to forte
of two or four appear for each instrument Suzuki Violin Books. The collection is with long crescendos in between. Lots of
as well. An eighth note pattern frequently designed for students reading music already, long slurs are required. Chromatic runs are
provides a light accompaniment that can though recordings can be found online, and also found in the first movement. While
be performed either on or off-the-string. is for Suzuki books 1–2, or beginning to being challenging, it has very beautiful
Although the upper strings can remain in early intermediate level. Some of the tunes melodic sections! The second movement,
first position throughout the work, many are recurring—for instance, the first piece is “Improvisation, Andante cantabile,” moves
different finger patterns are used. The violin called “Starry Night,” a takeoff on Twinkle, into A-flat minor, but accidentals abound.
and viola sections will gain experience using then “The Big Dipper,” which is “Starry The slower tempo gives the violinist and
low 2, low 1, and low 4. Cello students can Night” in 3/4 with slurs, then “Lullaby for pianist a bit of a rest after the intense first
use extensions, and bassists shift to second Castor and Pollux,” which adds double movement. Sections are marked for playing
position. Nishimura uses several tricky stops, and then yet another version in mixed with a mute, which give it even more depth
rhythms including long-held ties and a meter, 6/8 and 9/8. Several of the pieces are of interest along with all the other technical
variety of dotted note values. Tree House is repeated with slurs added, such as “Leading- interests. The “Finale, Andante” is full of
a beautiful work that provides significant Tone Gallop” and “Slurry Leading-Tone runs, bariolage, and chromatic scale-like
pedagogical value. A. L. C. Gallop.” There are pieces to introduce or passages and quite exciting! This is sure to
reinforce the 1–2 finger pattern or low 2s, be an extensive work to prepare, but such a
high 3s, extension 4s, augmented seconds, beautiful one. It includes two violin parts,
Violin dotted quarter-eighth note hooks, half one including edits by Ulrich Kramer, and
position, and more. “Farmer’s Crossing for another with Kramer’s edits with bowing
24 CAPRICES FOR VIOLIN SOLO and fingering by Arabella Steinbacher.
Happier Farmers” may be more delightful
(Advanced, Violin). Pierre Rode, ed. Convenient fold-out pages also make page
than the original, with left-hand pizzicato,
Norbert Gertsch and Friedemann Eichhorn. turns a breeze. It will be a sonata thoroughly
long crescendos, and even more string
G. Henle Verlag, 2019, $21.95. enjoyed by violinists, pianists, and audience
crossings and hooked bowings. A few pieces
These caprices are still a staple in violin stand alone, such as “Goodnight Air,” which alike! L. J.
educational works even today. They are takes inspiration and rhythm from the
typically studied after Kreutzer’s 42 Etudes TCHAIKOVSKY VIOLIN ALBUM: SOLOS
children’s book Goodnight Moon. Teachers
and include works in each of the twenty- FROM THE BALLETS (Advanced,
will quickly notice which pieces can be
four major and minor keys. They can be Violin, Violoncello, Piano). Piotr Ilyitch
paired together and use them accordingly
divided into two groups—the traditional, Tchaikovsky, ed. David Halen. Galaxy
to help and inspire their students, or they
methodical etudes and the more musical Music, 2020, $30.
can work through the book piece by piece.
ones with slow introductions and more What I like best about this book is that, in This collection includes three excerpts
rondo-like recital pieces. Techniques addition to the nice technical progression from Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake:
include high positions, changing positions, that works well with the Suzuki books, each Pas de Deux (Black Swan), Scene (White
runs, articulations, complicated string piece could also be used in performance as Swan), and Danse Russe. The White Swan
crossings, scales, broken chords, trills, an unaccompanied work and many have Scene also includes a cello obligato. This
and double stops. There are few octaves, wonderful expressive possibilities. In these collection also includes one excerpt from
harmonics, double harmonics, and pandemic times, students often need a piece Tchaikovsky’s ballet The Sleeping Beauty:
right- and left-hand pizzicato. The slow they can perform alone for a recital, contest, Entr’acte. David Halen, the concertmaster
introductions also provide good places or simply for friends and family. H. M. F. of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, has
for vibrato practice. This edition includes carefully edited both the piano and violin
many convenient fold-out pages to provide SONATA IN E-FLAT MAJOR OP.18 parts. It includes meticulous fingerings,
easy page turns. Just about every page (Advanced, Violin, Piano). Richard Strauss, articulations, dynamics, tempos, and
includes specific instructions from Rode ed. Ulrich Kramer. G. Henle Verlag, 2019, more! This edition would be perfect for the
on sections or entire caprices. Original $38.95. concert soloist, concertmaster, or aspiring
fingering by Rode is included, as well as This is Strauss’ only sonata for violin and young musician. It requires comfort in all
alternate fingering in gray by editor Norbert piano. The first and last movements are positions, harmonics, both natural and false,
Gretsch. For the aspiring student, this is a very technically demanding. The middle double stops, trills, bariolage, challenging
wonderful edition to move them forward movement, “Improvisation,” provides a bit of bowing, tempo changes, accidentals, difficult
in their technique. It is a beautiful edition a rest. This piece is very advanced, requiring keys, and cadenzas. The music is also
that deserves to be a part of every growing many technical challenges. Despite the part of an orchestra suite with orchestral
violinist’s library. L. J. challenges, it is a gorgeously lovely sonata! accompaniment that can be purchased

WWW.ASTASTRINGS.ORG | 57
Reviews

separately. This would provide the musician the range of the first three positions. Etude of double stops in thirds. The Brexit Polka is
with not only the opportunity to perform 1, “Pentatonic,” as the name implies, uses a parody that includes the national anthem
with a pianist, but also with an entire five-note pentatonic scale and focuses on of every country in the European Union,
orchestra. Whether for competition, recital, double stops, combinations of bow strokes, interspersed with a recurring rendition of
or concert, this is a collection that would and syncopated rhythms. “Smooth” is an the United Kingdom’s anthem. The Tango
be worth any advanced violinists time to excellent exercise for flexibility of the right Waltz never ceases in its driving rhythm, and
explore! L. J. wrist, and it is innovative in alternating the Passacaglia is a tour de force! Students
duplets with triplets. Etude 3 focuses on of varying abilities can perform different
WEDDING MUSIC FOR VIOLIN AND
left-hand pizzicato with some unusual pieces in the collection. The first two pieces
VIOLA (Intermediate, Violin, Viola). Scott
bow-pizzicato string combinations. By the are about a grade 5 level, but the technical
Staidle. Mel Bay Publications, 2019,
way, this etude seems to lack da capo sign prowess needed steady increases throughout.
$19.99.
at the end—it would have been logical Only your most advanced students should be
This collection of popular classical music and musically more rewarding to return able to play the last couple of pieces. Double
used for weddings is arranged for violin to the beginning and finish at the end of stops, changing meters, extended positions,
and viola with no piano accompaniment. measure 12. “Bariolage” etude is excellent and many accidentals characterize the nature
Music includes favorites by Bach, Beethoven, for practicing string crossings in three-string of the technical prowess needed. For the
Handel, Mendelssohn, Vivaldi, Purcell, chords in various directional combinations. professional violist, this group of pieces is a
Fiocco, Pachelbel, Haydn, Mouret, Wagner, “Whole Tone” etude provides practice of gem! It’s so beautifully done, creative, and
and Boccherini. It comes with a separate playing melodies and passages in whole challenging! Several of these would make
violin music book, a separate viola music steps, and the next etude, “Substitution,” great recital or encore pieces. For myself,
book as well as a score that has both parts is a good exercise for intonation. Finally, hours of enjoyable practice ensued, and that
printed together. Pieces are written in “Fibonacci Perpetuo” uses an interesting idea has been a viola miracle. G. P.
accessible keys and have wonderful markings of building the length of melodic lines by
for bowings, articulations, dynamics, and Fibonacci numbers. Brava to the composer
tempo. These help to take out a lot of Cello
for such original thinking! Musically, these
the guesswork for the musicians! Pieces etudes evoke fiddle and folk styles with CELLO SONATA (Violoncello and Piano).
also include repeats and D.C./D.S.s for modes, natural minor, and so on, but there is Elena Ruehr. E. C. Schirmer Music
lengthening pieces as needed to fill specific a flip side: most of the pieces follow similar Company, 2020, $28.
timings for the wedding events. Sixteenth chord progressions, often rotating around
notes abound as well as their different Advanced students and professionals will
two to three harmonies for a long time, and
rhythmic patterns. Double stops are not enjoy bringing this modern sonata to life.
there are no memorable melodies in all the
overly abundant but could even be left Written for Jennifer Kloetzel, this sonata
compositions. Most of the etudes are based
out if the student were confident in their is composed in three sections performed
on harmonic progressions and repetitions,
execution yet. Trills and mordents are also without pause: the first is lyrical and reaches
which are not always interesting. I think
written in and may require some instruction upward, often in slow scale step motion; the
that any of the first three etudes might be
from the teacher as to how those are to be second is darker riff on the blues; the third
musically suitable for inclusion in a recital.
executed. Most is written in first position is a joyous finale. The composer tells us the
M. G.
with a few places requiring third position. composition is “about a young person who
Whether the event is large or small, indoor, VIOLAMANIA (Grades 5–6, Solo Viola). is reaching for something that is ephemeral,
or outdoor, this music will be just right! And Aleksey Igudesman. Universal Edition, hoping for the future, finding difficulty, and
even if the event isn’t a wedding, there are 2019, $26.95. eventually triumphing.”
pieces included that are not necessarily only Aleksey Igudesman is a known Russian/ Short, repeated motifs and sequences
wedding related. This is a great collection for German violinist who is also a composer, a create a minimalist style. While traditional
any violin and viola duo! L. J. conductor, and a comedian. He is part of a melodies are not included, the piece brings
music/comedy duo with pianist Hyung-ki us to many beautiful, colorful high points.
Joo. His creativity certainly shines in this The use of chromaticism creates tension
Viola and evolutions which are very emotional
selection of viola unaccompanied solos,
7 CONCERT ETUDES FOR SOLO VIOLA which he graciously dedicated to violists and compelling. While the concept of
(Medium to Advanced). Katrina Wreede. who are his friends. The pieces start out dissonance is somewhat subjective, be
Vlazville Music, BMI, 2017, $8.99. as beautiful flowing tunes, which quickly prepared for extended passages which
change to more intricate displays of include tone clusters and unresolved
There are many etudes and study materials
virtuosity. My favorites in this collection cadences.
for violin and viola, but it is always
include the Andantino, a sweet soaring The edition might benefit from rethinking
interesting and exciting to see another
melody that has a calming effect to the end. the left- and right-hand voicing for piano.
composer or performer coming up with
The Rhapsody is a tribute to Mr. Igudesman’s Some passages were inordinately difficult
a new set. These seven etudes are original
Eastern European roots. It includes sections to play due to crowded fingers. The cello
in their concept, while staying mostly in

58 | American String Teacher | November 2021

 Reviews

part requires advanced abilities, with and the page layout facilitating page turns. Symphony Orchestra and other orchestras
technical chromatic and upper register Although one can purchase the full set of and string ensembles in the greater Hartford,
work. The playing time is approximately Beethoven cello sonatas from Henle for Connecticut, area. She is also an active music
thirteen minutes. P. R. $47.95, I highly recommend acquiring these education clinician, lecturer, studio teacher,
single sonata editions, especially for those and orchestra conductor.
FANDANGO FOR SOLO CELLO. Lauren
who still prefer hard copies to electronic
Bernofsky. Merion Music/Theodore Presser Amy Catron (A. C.) is in-demand from
versions and those who desperately need
Company, 2019, $8.99. stage to studio. She frequently appears as
to replace older editions. Henle is a trusted
A student of Lukas Foss, Lauren Bernofsky Urtext source for Beethoven publications. soloist, chamber musician, adjudicator,
is a prolific composer and active conductor. This version is no exception. A. C. and clinician. In 2015, she premiered a
The Fandango for Solo Cello begins with concerto written for her by Carlos Carillo
a slow introduction Lento quasi cadenza with Sinfonia da Camera often broadcast
in 12/8 time that accelerates into 9/8, 6/8, Books on National Public Radio. She recently
and 5/8 time signatures, rhythmically performed and recorded the world premieres
MY FIRST MUSIC THEORY BOOK,
intensifying before arriving into the of Robert Chumbley’s Particle I for solo
VOLUMES 1 AND 2 (Gr. 1-3, Treble Clef
fandango. Evoking the character of the cello, Particle II with the Millikin Wind
Any Instrument). Lynette Cartagena. Kids
Spanish dance, this piece uses the ample Ensemble, and Songs of the Siren for cello
Musik, 2014, $22.95.
range of the cello to illustrate two dancers, and piano. Her CD Particles and Prayer won
rhythmic effects to illustrate flamenco Lynette Cartagena, a violinist in the Puerto
a silver medal in the Global Music Awards in
castanets, and mixes strumming pizzicato Rico Symphony and director of Escuela
2019. She teaches applied cello, music theory,
and lyrical bowed melodic elements to Puertorriquena para la Musica, has written
ear training, university studies, and the
paint an aural landscape of the folk idiom. these two original volumes of books which
Millikin Community Cello Choir at Millikin
Blending G minor harmonies and Phrygian can be purchased in either English or
University.
colors, this work is a “five-and-a-half-minute Spanish. These unique volumes are for any
tour de force for the cellist—a showpiece of child aged 4 and up. The topics included in Paul Christopher (P. C.) is associate
texture, drama, and lyricism” and will surely the books include introductions to the staff, professor of music theory and low strings
be a crowd-pleasing addition to any recital clefs, rhythms, the construction of scales, at Northwestern State University in
program. I strongly recommend this work intervals, key signatures, and accidentals. Natchitoches, Louisiana. His articles have
as an option for advanced intermediate to The first volume concentrates on basics, with been published in the Jacques Offenbach
professional cellists. A. C. fun puzzles, drawing the clefs and notes, Society Newsletter, Strings, American String
pictures of composers, rhythmic games, and Teacher, and Bass World. He is currently
SONATA IN A MAJOR, OP. 69 (Cello and a great section at the end entitled “Let’s Sing.” recording the cello duos of Jacques
Piano). Ludwig van Beethoven, ed. Jens Volume 2 moves on to scales, intervals, Offenbach with seven CDs available.
Dufner. G. Henle Verlag, 2020, $13.95. the circle of fifths, the instruments of
Henle has released new editions to celebrate the orchestra, and more biographies of Anna L. Cromwell (A. L. C.) teaches violin
the 250th anniversary of Beethoven. These composers. The presentation in each and viola at the University of Wisconsin
are convenient single sonata publications for volume is easy to follow for any student and Stevens Point. She has been on faculty at
each of the cello sonatas. This edition of op. contains valuable skills that can be a part Eastern Illinois University and Western
69 has standardized grace notes and clefs of a child’s weekly lesson. Additionally, a Kentucky University. She can be heard
to suit modern performing conventions. school director could use these pages for performing in Duo XXI on the CD Quest:
In standardizing and modernizing this class reinforcement of note and rhythm New Music for Violin and Cello and the CD
edition, parentheses indicate editorial skills. The games and puzzles are delightful, Metal Cicadas. She has given presentations
differences from the original notation, and the illustrations are well done, and the at the ASTA National Conference, the
the comments explain the sources of these enrichment of introducing the composers, Illinois Music Educators Conference, and
differences from publication and letters. the instruments of the orchestra, and the Indiana Music Educators Conference.
Further details on sources used for this singing pitches aloud is wonderfully In addition, her articles have appeared in
edition can be found in the Critical Report presented. Music theory made fun is always the North Carolina ASTA online journal,
by Jens Dufner published separately from a plus! G. P. the Illinois ASTA journal The Scroll, and the
these parts. This edition includes the piano American Music Teacher.
score with fingerings by Ian Fountain,
Reviewers
including a preface and comments. Hannah M. Frey (H. M. F.) teaches violin
Also included are two cello parts: one Nola Campbell (N. C.) is the director of and viola at Washington University of St
version is edited by Jens Dufner, and the Orchestras at Glastonbury High School, Louis and Lindenwood University and has a
supplementary violoncello part is fingered teaching 150 strings students and twenty-five large private studio at her home. She is also
and bowed by cellist David Geringas. guitar students each day. She performs on an active chamber and orchestral musician
Performers will enjoy access to both parts either violin or viola with the New Britain and performs with a variety of local groups.

WWW.ASTASTRINGS.ORG | 59
Reviews

She is currently concertmaster of the Winter director of Orchestral Studies at the She is retired from Arlington Public
Opera St Louis Orchestra, first violinist University of Portland. As a conductor, Schools in Arlington, Virginia, where she
of the Perseid Quartet, and recently was violist, and musicologist, she is especially was director of middle and high school
a featured soloist with the Metropolitan interested in compositions by female and orchestras for twenty-one years. Recently,
Orchestra of St Louis. Originally from marginalized composers and strives to bring she has been adjunct lecturer in string
Clinton, South Carolina, she is a graduate these lesser-known works to new audiences. pedagogy at the University of Maryland,
of the Cleveland Institute of Music and is a With a passion for teaching, she emphasizes College Park. She freelances as a violist,
Nationally Certified Teacher of Music. the collaboration and community coaches local chamber music ensembles,
engagement that music can bring. teaches privately, and performs in a local
Misha Galaganov (M. G.) is professor of professional symphony orchestra in the
viola and chair of strings at Texas Christian Lydia Jezowski (L. J.) is the director of the Washington, D.C., area.
University. He has performed and taught in string program at Calvary Baptist Academy
many prestigious venues in Europe, Asia, in Midland, Michigan. She teaches private Patricia Ritchie (P. R.) combines her
the Middle East, and the Americas. He has lessons in violin, viola, cello, and bass as well love for performing and teaching as an
premiered numerous compositions written as beginning string classes, three levels of active conductor, adjudicator, coach,
for him by composers from many parts orchestras, and elementary music classes for recitalist, private teacher, and professional
of the world. His former viola and violin first and second grade. cellist. As assistant conductor for the
students now have successful solo, teaching, Omaha Area Youth Orchestras program,
and orchestra careers on all continents. Gene Pohl (G. P.) is a graduate of the she has the opportunity to conduct
Ithaca College School of Music Education students from surrounding school districts
Rebekah A. Hanson (R. A. H.) is assistant and has a graduate degree in viola and visit wonderful school orchestra
professor of Music and Fine Arts and performance from Boston University. programs.

60 | American String Teacher | November 2021