Jambalaya--A Portrait of Old New Orleans, For 2 pianos, 4 hands.(Book review)

Jambalaya--A Portrait of Old New Orleans, For 2 pianos, 4 hands, by Eugenie Rocherolle. Hal Leonard Corporation, 2008. www.musicdispatch.com; (800) 637-2852. 21 pp. $7.95. Intermediate.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

As a tribute to her native city, Eugenie Rocherolle writes this piece "remembering New Orleans the way she used to be, and the victims of the storm who have had to say goodbye." Although melancholy and nostalgic at times, this fantasy-like duet also evokes energetic and celebratory moods.

The warm, lyrical introduction with its lush harmonies serves as the main theme of the piece, returning twice with some variations. In contrast, excitement is added with a bright ragtime-like section and a boogie blues theme with great interplay between the parts. There is also a version of "Oh, When the Saints" with interesting rhythmic and harmonic flavors.

Both piano parts are equally difficult and appropriately labeled "intermediate" by the publisher. Coordinating the two parts together, however, will be quite challenging for the ...