Pleyel, Haydn's student, had exceptional musical talent. The Duet Opus 8 no. 2 is a delightful and accessible piece highlighting different parts of the ensemble, showcasing diverse musical techniques like spiccato quavers, slurred string crossings, and martel crotchets. It's a great starting point for those who want to appreciate Classical music.
This piece of music is intended for a string orchestra with a difficulty level of grade 3.
Pleyel was one of Haydn's most illustrious students, known for his exceptional musical talent that was evident in his witty yet elegant compositional style across many of his works. The arrangement of the Duet opus 8 no. 2 is a delightful and accessible piece that introduces students to the disciplined and refined world of Classical period music. Each section of the composition highlights different parts of the ensemble, with techniques such as spiccato quavers, slurred string crossings, and martele crotchets providing a rich and diverse musical experience. Overall, this piece is a great starting point for those who want to learn and appreciate Classical music.
This piece of music is intended for a string orchestra with a difficulty level of grade 3.
This suite of three contrasting movements is perfect for young string players. It includes fun techniques like tremolo, pizzicato, harmonics, tapping, and even screaming. Bumps in the Dark is thrilling, Far Away Dreams is gentle and thoughtful, and Shooting Stars is exciting. The suite encourages active listening within the ensemble.
Listen to #1 – Bumps in the Dark
Albeniz's piece was originally written for piano, showcasing Spanish passion and brilliance. It alludes to a legend from Asturias, with Moroccan influences. The use of string techniques adds intensity to this haunting work.
It's graded at level 3.5 for string orchestra.
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.
Grieg's music is rooted in Norwegian folk songs. The "Watchman's Song" has a ghostly section conveyed through tremolo. A melancholic waltz follows, evoking a troll's cave. The contrast of keys and playing styles can refine any ensemble.
1. The Watchman's Song
2. Waltz
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
The Thirty Concert Pieces – Cello (Grade 1) with CD by Stephen Chin contains 30 accessible pieces for beginning cello players. Designed for Grade 1, the collection develops technique, rhythm, intonation, expression, and performance confidence.
Key Features:
• Composer: Stephen Chin
• Instrument: Cello
• Level: Grade 1
• Contents: 30 pieces
• Developing players
• Performance repertoire
• Includes: CD
The Thirty Concert Pieces – Violin (Grade 1) with CD by Stephen Chin contains 30 accessible pieces for beginning violin players. Designed for Grade 1, the collection develops technique, rhythm, intonation, expression, and performance confidence.
Key Features:
• Composer: Stephen Chin
• Instrument: Violin
• Level: Grade 1
• Contents: 30 pieces
• Developing players
• Performance repertoire
• Includes: CD
The Midnight Serenade starts with faint calls of the night. The haunting melody is shared throughout the piece over a waltz-like accompaniment. Dark Train is a dynamic composition based on a simple three-note ostinato, with whistle effects that excite younger players.
1. Midnight Serenade
2. Dark Train
For String Orchestra Grade 1
