The tunes from “Gypsy” are nearly as well-known today as they were thirty
years ago. The melodies are first-rate, and these arrangements by Rosa will
make you and your organ sound its best. Her arrangements present the melody
as the most important part, and you will find no gratuitous and difficult
scales and arpeggios to slow your preparation.
Rosa Rio lived for many years in Sun City Center, Florida, with her
husband Bill Yeoman before her death on May 13, 2010, but she was there
at the beginning of the theatre organ. She has been involved with show business
in so many forms throughout her career that arranging Broadway show music
is just another facet. Just to give you a brief idea of why her arrangements
demonstrate superb musicianship, great style, and practical keyboard techniques:
In New York City, Rosa served as a vocal coach and accompanist to many famous
singers. Rosa accompanied a young Mary Martin on the night she auditioned
for Cole Porter and his new show “Red, Hot and Blue.” So strong was Rosa's affinity for Broadway melodies that she has used for many years
the well-known
Everything's Coming Up Roses from “Gypsy” as her theme song. These arrangements are
moderately easy and will make you “sound like a pro.”