This incredibly powerful lyrical work by Brian Balmages draws its DNA from a series of suspended harmonies that constantly flow throughout the ensemble. Designed to expand the artistic norms often associated with younger ensembles, Sunset Suspended is equally appropriate for intermediate or advanced orchestras. Stunning. (3:00)
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.
Scored in D major, this winning march for first-year strings opens and ends with dramatic pyramid entrances from the bottom up -- cellos and basses first, then violas, then 2nd Violins, and finally 1st Violins. Rhythms are simple, bowings are clearly marked, and the optional percussion part for snare drum and bass drum enhances the parade-style theme. Duration 1:40.
Chicken Licken by Chirs Allen for grades 4-6. Pub. Spartan Press.
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.
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.
The Dancing Peppers is a charming and light-hearted piece featuring repeated figures reminiscent of a familiar Mexican theme. The work is fun to play, yet teachers will find it packed with wonderful elementary string teaching points that help encourage both left- and right-hand technical development and refinement.
