A Spaniard for Elise

Here comes Michael Proksch's "A Spaniard for Elise," a collection of twelve exquisite pieces that are an irresistible treat for lovers of four-hand playing. You'll feel blissful "In Seventh Heaven" and full of joie de vivre on Paris's Pont-Neuf in "Seine Scene." You can join "Erik Satie, Surprised by the Fresh Country Air" and engage in a temperamental dialogue of styles in "A Spaniard for Elise." Enhancing the pedagogical value of this singular collection are comments on how to play the pieces, as well as a CD which can not only be listened to and enjoyed, but also used as a play-along version, as it carries individual tracks for the primo and secondo parts

To music and notes sample No. 5 High Spirits

Primo: Staccati with a dynamic, forward drive produced with a nimbly reacting wrist and calm arm. Strongly accentuate the first note at legato slurs. The appoggiaturas can be initially left out. mm. 1-8: Right hand plays alone; mm. 9-16 divided between l.h. and r.h.

Secondo: four-measure-long accompaniment pattern (can also be used as a basis for original melodies!). The fourth beats are stressed through slurred eighths.