Influence Songbook

Tim Neumark

2010 / Neumark Music

68 pages

Influence is the companion songbook to Tim Neumark’s 2009 CD release by the same name. All twelve pieces from the CD are included, and the entire book is a delight to play. The music is very straight-forward and the notation is clear and roomy, making it easy to read. Pianists of an upper-intermediate/early-advanced playing level will have no trouble mastering this music and will have a very enjoyable time in the process. Neumark uses single eighth notes extensively in the left hand of his music, which simplifies the timing considerably. Most of the chords in this music are at the end of each piece, so players are not required to have large hands to reach all of the notes. The twelve pieces range from serene to playful to reflective to rather dark. None of the music is big or boisterous, but there is a range of expression that will keep pianists interested from cover to cover. I especially enjoy playing “Kenyon Court,” “Six Weeks,” “Thurman,” “Church On a Hill,” and “Leaving Frostburg.” Check it out!

Kathy Parsons

MainlyPiano.com

1/16/10