The Best Of Times (from La Cage Aux Folles): E-Z Play Today
The Best Of Times (from La Cage Aux Folles) Sheet Music Preview

The Best Of Times (from La Cage Aux Folles): E-Z Play Today

Item: 35-DS00457736
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$4.99
Description

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Additional Details
Publisher: Hal Leonard
Page Count: 4
SKU: 35-DS00457736

More about this title

About the Creator: Jerry Herman

Jerry Herman built a career on melodies that stick with audiences long after the curtain falls. His gift for crafting accessible yet sophisticated show tunes earned him multiple Tony Awards and made him one of Broadway's most celebrated composers. La Cage Aux Folles, which premiered in 1983, became one of his signature achievements, running for over a decade and earning critical acclaim for both its music and its groundbreaking story.

Herman's compositional approach prioritizes singability and emotional clarity without sacrificing harmonic interest. He understood how to write for both trained singers and theater audiences who simply wanted to connect with the moment. This balance is exactly what makes his work endure in educational settings.

Why we love this

The Best Of Times captures the warmth and wisdom that makes La Cage Aux Folles resonate beyond its novelty value. This arrangement sits comfortably in the E-Z Play Today series, which means students encounter real Broadway artistry without wrestling with imposing technical demands. The piece works beautifully as a recital solo, an accompaniment for a vocalist exploring musical theater repertoire, or a standalone offering that demonstrates how effective melody-driven composition can be.

What to expect

The song unfolds with quiet dignity and genuine affection. There is no irony or cynicism here, just a character sharing hard-won perspective on what matters in life. The harmonic language feels warm and familiar, inviting the listener into an intimate moment rather than demanding applause.

Who it's for

This arrangement suits pianists of intermediate ability who want accessible Broadway material with genuine artistic substance. It works equally well for students learning to accompany singers, pianists building a recital program, or anyone exploring the American musical theater canon at a manageable technical level.

How to get the most out of it

  • Lean into the lyrical quality of the melody rather than playing it mechanically; this song earns its emotional weight through phrasing that mirrors natural speech rhythms.
  • Balance the accompaniment texture so the harmonic foundation supports but never overwhelms the vocal line, especially if performing as a solo piano piece.
  • Pay attention to tempo steadiness; the song's reflective character can drift if the pulse becomes uncertain.

How to use it

Consider pairing this with other reflective Broadway selections for a cabaret-style recital, or use it as an introduction to Jerry Herman's work within a musical theater unit. The moderate length and emotional accessibility make it suitable for end-of-year recitals or as a teaching piece that opens discussions about character development through music.

Skills your students will build

  • Playing sustained lyrical lines with consistent phrasing and breath control
  • Accompanying a vocal melody while maintaining independent harmonic support
  • Interpreting Broadway style conventions and performance standards
  • Reading and executing moderate tempo markings and dynamic shapes that support dramatic content

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