Home > Duke, Vernon > April in Paris > April in Paris (by Vernon Duke) arranged for two pianos C-Dur
Rocherolle, Eugenie Ricau : April in Paris (by Vernon Duke) arranged for two pianos C-Dur
Work Overview
First Publisher:Warner Brothers
Instrumentation:Piano Ensemble
Genre:transcription
Total Playing Time:3 min 00 sec
Original/Related Work: Duke, Vernon 《April in Paris》
Commentary (1)
Author : Nishihara, Masaki
Last Updated: October 5, 2022
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Author : Nishihara, Masaki
This is 'April in Paris's arrangement of the jazz standard Rocherolle for two pianos. The cover indicates 'intermediate' level, and it can be easily played with a technique level comparable to Czerny 30. Meticulous consideration for ensemble playing, such as avoiding troublesome cueing, is characteristic of Rocherolle. Vernon Duke, who composed the original piece, was a figure who moved from Russia to America and became active there, possessing an academic background, having graduated from the Kyiv (Kiev) Conservatory and studied under Glière. The lyrics were written by E. Y. Harburg, and it is a stylish number that sings of longing for beautiful Paris with its chestnut tree-lined avenues and the premonition of new love. Rocherolle's elegant and sophisticated arrangement, befitting his deep knowledge of jazz, feels just right. It is good that it is not overly convoluted. Not only for lessons and recitals, but also because it doesn't interfere with other pieces, it proves surprisingly versatile for use as a palate cleanser during concerts, a short diversion, or an encore. Moderately slow, 4/4 time, C major. Dedicated to Jane Sweet and Varina Steuert.