These works are perfect for the beginner string ensemble player. They continue the earlier publication titled "A Dozen Dazzlers." They feature unison, simple parts and call-response writing and prepare the players for the greater demands of a full-string orchestra. All parts have been meticulously crafted for ease of playing and to focus on essential ensemble skills such as pizzicato, legato, staccato, and harmonics. These attractive pieces will ignite the students' imaginations.
Embarking on the journey from being a beginner to playing in a string orchestra is an experience that is both exhilarating and rewarding. It is a wonderful voyage that requires persistence, dedication, and hard work.
These pieces are a perfect starting point for beginner ensemble players. They continue the earlier publication titled "A Dozen Dazzlers." The pieces include unison, simple parts, and call-and-response writing to help you prepare for the greater demands of playing in a full-string orchestra.
All the parts of these pieces have been meticulously crafted for near-beginner players. This means you can easily concentrate on essential ensemble skills while learning to play the violin or any other string instrument. These pieces expose you to various techniques such as pizzicato, legato, staccato, and harmonics. These techniques will help you develop your skills and prepare you for more complex pieces.
Furthermore, as you practice and play these attractive and evocative pieces, your imagination will run wild, and you will find yourself transported to different worlds and emotions. You will experience the joy of creating beautiful music and the satisfaction of seeing your hard work pay off.
Mozart composed over 30 violin sonatas during his lifetime. Among these works, only one sonata stands out for being entirely in a minor key. This particular sonata is known for its dark, brooding and energetic nature. It also features spiccato and martele articulations, which were crucial to the Classical style of music. This piece is appropriate for Grade 4 string orchestras.
Introduce your students to Russian classical music with "Pictures at an Exhibition" by Mussorgsky. "Promenade" links various pieces, while "Danse Caracteristique" features harmonics, syncopated accompaniments, and chromatic scales.
1. Promenade (Mussorgsky)
2. Dance Caracteristique (Rebikov)
For String Orchestra level 2.5
The Iching, a series of texts created by Emperor Zhou in the 9th century BC China, helps interpret thoughts and dreams. Its orchestral representation features an energetic section that paints a vibrant life in ancient China and concludes with thrilling cascades of repeated sixteenth notes.
This piece uses dynamic change and harmonics to evoke the beauty and mystery of the stratosphere.
Dedicated to Stephen's wonderful wife, Ann. Grade 3.
Haydn's second symphony in a minor key is a classic Sturm und Drang piece with strong emotional changes. It's great for expanding classical repertoire and practising playing techniques in G minor.
ES 133
Heavenly Lake in Tianshan Mountain, Xinjiang, China, has a myth about a goddess who overcame a demon. The playable piece features pentatonic melodies, lush harmonies, bracing rhythms, and intricate textures.
For String Orchestra (Grade 2)
1. Mirrors of Water
2. Urns of Fire
The Swans of Lir is an Irish legend about young children turned into swans by dark forces. The melody and accompaniments in "The Lake" reflect their helplessness, while "The Rejoicing" celebrates their eventual transformation back into children. The piece is scored for strings, recorders and percussion and is perfect for large concerts or festivals.
Australian summer holidays are magical! "Catamarans" captures the graceful movement of sailing vessels with wistful melodies. "Beach Party" is lively, depicting fun in the sand with driving quavers and unique textures. Both pieces feature harmonics and shifting in the first violins.
Featuring two pieces: Catamarans and Beach Party
