On first steady read-through this entertaining little jazz/latin-inspired piece seems easyish and relatively secure on the fingers then one notices that the tempo is set at crotchet = 92 so the comfort zone suddenly gets less comfortable. However, with careful working out of the fingering (for both hands) the work isn't as daunting as the speed would indicate and should be suitable for the grade 5 player. Couleur Locale has a joyous flavour with the alternating bass notes underpinning some pleasing little melody lines and is one of those pieces which would suit many an occasion; 'fun' encore item, informal concert, folk club etc. The score is nicely presented with a sensible amount of left hand fingering. Steve Marsh
