Melody Bober’s The Dakotas visits both North and South Dakota in three movements for late intermediate level pianists. In the opening movement, "The Great Plains," majestic chords, sixteenth-note runs and a soaring melody recreate the sweeping vistas of this vast grassland area that is found in both states. In the second movement, "Heirlooms and Lace," a lyrical and expressive melody with lush accompaniment recreates the sense of loss and longing when families moved to the new Dakota Territory created in 1861 and left behind precious belongings. The final movement, "Badlands Rough Rider," brings the suite to an energetic close. The Badlands regions of North and South Dakota are represented by this lively piece that shows the style and flair of a rough and tough horse and rider in this desolate region.
