arr. Deborah Baker Monday

Katie O'Hara LaBrie,  Snow Day! for String Orchestra (Alfred Music)

Waking up on a cold winter day. Sledding. Hot chocolate. It's a snow day! Written by Katie O'Hara LaBrie, Snow Day! is craftily designed only using the notes of a D major scale. This highly accessible piece, with its bright melodies and jingle bell accompaniment will delight students and audiences.

Haydn’s Lost Chorale is a revised version of The Abbey, inspired by Haydn’s St. Anthony’s Chorale. It’s scored for string orchestra with optional piano, including violin 3 (treble viola) and violin parts. It features a dotted rhythm, quasi-classical textures and singing themes.

Keith Sharp earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1984. He's been a string educator in Brisbane since then, creating award-winning programs and compositions. His works are popular in Australia and internationally. Keith is also a clinician, guest conductor, and guest lecturer.

Fred Hubbell, March of the Metro Gnome String Orchestra (Kendor Music)

Designed as a first concert piece for beginners, this enduring favourite (released in 1968) limits rhythms to nothing shorter than a quarter note, includes no slurs, provides ample bowing reminders, and may even be performed minus basses without sacrificing musical integrity. The percussion part for wood block, however, must be used since its steady quarter-note pulse represents the sound of a metronome.

This nautical-themed piece starts with violas and cellos evoking the swell of waves. The seconds create sea breeze sounds; the first violin plays the main theme energetically. Everyone gets a chance to participate, and the middle section featuring cellos is eerie. The suspenseful wait for the sea breezes to pick up again adds to the effect, and the piece ends with a fun and lively section.

For String Orchestra Grade 1.5