Very Young Musician

Krementz, creator of photographic portraits of a young gymnast, dancer, skater, rider and others, here turns her attention to Josh Broder, an affable fifth-grader who loves to play the trumpet. Krementz's photos--some clearly posed and others refreshingly candid--show Josh practicing with a jazz band at school, taking private lessons, studying a musical score at home and marching with a local high school band in a Veterans' Day parade. Krementz focuses on two events that were highlights in the life of this gifted trumpeter: a stay at Interlochen, a summer camp for performing artists; and a private session with Wynton Marsalis before a concert given by this famous trumpet player. Sprinkled throughout Josh's first-person narrative are nuggets of information that aspiring musicians will appreciate, including a description of woodwind, brass and percussion instruments. Only occasionally does the text sound a false note, as when this 10-year-old allegedly says: ``Trumpet players are all good kissers. At least that's what my girlfriends say.'' Nevertheless, this is a commendable addition to Krementz's series. Ages 4-8. (Jan.)