Reflections of Youth.

by Stephen Griebling. The Willis Music Company (P.O. Box 548, Florence, KY41022-0548), 2001.24 pp., $4.95. Intermediate.

In Reflections of Youth, Stephen Griebling captures the sights and sounds of the bygone days of childhood. The sweet fragrance of a spring day, the thrill of the echo of far-off drums and the silly gestures of childish dance are just some of the many images painted in each of the ten short pieces in this compilation.

Written in a neo-romantic style, Reflections of Youth is a handsome collection of intermediate-level solos that draw upon the nostalgic and sentimental themes of their titles. The chromatic harmonic language often is reminiscent of that of Debussy and Ravel, both composers admired by Griebling. Though somewhat predictable, these chromatic sequences generate an attractive, atmospheric quality.

Generally cast in a simple ABA form, each piece requires careful attention to appropriate balance of melody over accompaniment. Though a variety of articulations are employed throughout, the legato touch prevails, encouraging the development of a singing, cantabile line. As a result, each piece calls for substantial inflection and finesse.

"A Quirky Waltz" is wonderfully descriptive of its title. Here, the technique of "wrong-note" style writing is employed, suggesting the uncoordinated, awkward movements of a child dancer. A contrasting trio section in staccato thirds perhaps implies a child's tip-toe dance. "Distant Drums" is marked by a staccato, open-fifth ostinato pattern in the left hand, over which the chromatic-based melody reigns in the right hand. The performer is ...