Three samples from this collection of 8 compositions, I found particularly delightful:

“March” captures Tchaikovsky’s colorful orchestration in its opening choir of voices–just the right range in its showy TRIPLETs display! In addition, the selection has significant pedagogical value in the arena of supple wrist development and staccato technique. (A lovely light interlude is perfectly delightful) Add in an exploration of dynamic contrasts and a teacher can be pleased to top the menu with this holiday serving.

“Dance of the Reed Flutes,” is equally charming, particularly in its mid-section transition to F# minor. The rhythms are captivating, while a forward flexible, wrist motion is well applied here.

“Russian Dance,” in vitality alone, is a show-stopper, wooing most students to practice by increments to completion. It’s popularity is an instant springboard to learning, though it clearly falls into the “LATE INTERMEDIATE” level category.

The balance of pieces, “Miniature Overture,” “Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy,” “Arabian Dance,”(Definitely Intermediate level); “Chinese Dance” (needed inserted trills), and “Waltz of the Flowers” are nicely flavored musical desserts that should arrive just in time for Christmas, so why not indulge your students!

DISCLAIMER: While I’m not usually a partisan of ARRANGEMENTS re: the Classics, I’m a tad more tolerant of orchestral music transcribed to piano, that is, if it’s done artfully.

But were I to consider Beethoven’s “Fur Elise,” transposed and reduced to one page, I would not embrace such a journey.

Enough said,
Happy Holidays, and Enjoy the Music!

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