Folk Stringfest (with ECD)

Reviews / Votes

This publication consists of a book of piano accompaniments and a CD containing both audio recordings of the piano parts and pdf parts of violinist, violets and cellists at three levels of experience.



The folksongs are drawn from a range of European countries from Wales to Latvia. Arrangements are given the light touch, the piano parts are sparse in texture and technically very manageable. The 11 pieces are all very short and mostly upbeat, but welcome contrasts can be heard in Fais Do-do and Bonny at Morn (both, usefully, in three).



The two upper parts are reasonably even in demand, the lower third part sticking mainly to open strings and first fingers, though half-string harmonics are required in one piece, Teasing Song. Further support for good left hand development comes in the second part, where left-hand pizzicato is required, and there is also the opportunity for some third-position playing for violin and viola players tackling the top (melody) line.



Music Teacher Magazine, January 2008



The music is neatly produced and well laid out. As usual with Mary Cohen's work, specific string techniques are included...harmonics and left-hand pizz (plus grace notes)...



Ensemble Magazine, January 2008