Rocherolle, Eugenie Ricau : Christmas for Two
Work Overview
First Publisher:Belwin-Mills Publishing Corp.
Instrumentation:Piano Ensemble
Genre:pieces
Total Playing Time:10 min 00 sec
Commentary (1)
Author : Nishihara, Masaki
Last Updated: November 15, 2022
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Author : Nishihara, Masaki
One of the numerous Christmas collections (11 for solo piano, 4 for piano four-hands) composed by Rocherolle with various conceptual approaches. This particular volume features arrangements of Christmas carols and gospels for piano four-hands. While some pieces may initially appear sparse in texture, the inherent charm of four-hand playing becomes evident when two performers combine their parts, resulting in a perfectly balanced and complete sound. Much can be learned from the delicate four-hand writing, which employs only meticulously chosen notes. Pietro Yon's (organ teacher of David Del Tredici) "Gesù Bambino" (When Blossoms Flowered Mid the Snows), composed in 1917, is a relatively recent carol from the 20th century. A notable feature is the simultaneous presentation of two carols midway through the piece, faithfully reflecting the original composition. Despite a somewhat understated selection of pieces, the collection is replete with profoundly moving masterpieces. It is well-suited for inclusion in both lessons and recitals.
Contents
- No. 1 The Twelve Days of Christmas (Sonatina Style) Con Spirito 4/4 C major Dedicated to Barbara and Ted Ross
- No. 2 It Came Upon the Midnight Clear With a lilt 3/4 B-flat major Dedicated to Nancy and Raford Hulan
- No. 3 In the Bleak Midwinter (Holst) Gently flowing 4/4 F major In memory of Roger Lepoutre
- No. 4 Go Tell It on the Mountain (Gospel) With a beat 4/4 G major Dedicated to Jane and Cecil Morgan
- No. 5 Gesù Bambino (When Blossoms Flowered Mid the Snows) (Pietro Yon) Serenely 12/8 D major Dedicated to Debbie and Joe Kirby