Schubert's Sonatina Op. 137, No. 1's Allegro molto movement, originally for violin and piano, has been arranged for strings, making it more accessible.
Composer Franz Schubert was a skilled violinist who wrote over 12 string quartets by age 19. His first three violin sonatas, including Sonata No. 1 in D major, D 384, were later published as Sonatinas in 1836. The charming piece of music is relatively easy to perform.
Schubert's "März 1816" sonata has an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a small ensemble. It features three movements: Allegro molto, Andante, and Allegro vivace. The Allegro molto is a lively and fast-paced movement, followed by a slower, more contemplative Andante. The piece concludes with a rousing Allegro vivace.
Imagine yourself sitting in a concert hall filled with the sound of a lively Allegro molto from Schubert's Sonatina Op. 137, No. 1. This delightful piece of music was originally composed for violin and piano and has been arranged for a medium-level string orchestra, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Schubert, a prodigious composer and a skilled violinist had already composed over a dozen string quartets at the young age of 19. He then began to write violin sonatas, and in 1816, he composed his first three violin sonatas, including Sonata No. 1 in D major, D 384. These sonatas were later published as Sonatinas in 1836 (Op. posth. 137) after the composer's death. The Sonatina No. 1 in D major, D 384, is a charming piece of music that requires relatively little virtuoso bravura from its performers.
The intimate atmosphere of this piece is perfectly suited for a small ensemble. Schubert wrote "März 1816" (March 1816) on the autograph score of this sonata, which has three movements: Allegro molto, Andante, and Allegro vivace. The Allegro molto is a fast-paced, lively movement that will get your toes tapping and your heart racing. The Andante is a slower, more contemplative movement that provides a peaceful interlude before the final Allegro vivace, which brings the piece to a rousing conclusion.
Overall, Schubert's Sonatina Op. 137, No. 1 is a delightful piece of music that showcases the composer's talent for creating beautiful melodies and his ability to write music that is both accessible and engaging.
The legend of Excalibur is an exciting tale that captivates young minds. King Arthur's sword, Excalibur, emerges from the waters, followed by a sword dance. The mysterious theme reappears before a thrilling finale. Written for advanced and elementary players, it's a fantastic piece for a string festival or an advanced orchestra.
For String Orchestra Grade 3 & 1.5 (advanced and optional elementary strings)
This piece has three movements that explore different aspects of heat. It uses various techniques, such as pizzicato, legato melodies, staccato quarter notes, and double eighth notes, which are easy to manage for young players. It's a fun piece for any occasion!
1. Sparks
2. Smoke
3. Fire
For String Orchestra Grade 1
Inspired by "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner", this festival piece is for eight-string orchestras and percussion. It starts with a wall of sound, then a mournful melody, and a lively jig-like section. Only Orchestra A needs to play percussion.
For eight string orchestras and percussion - Level 4, 3, 2, 1.5, 1
The Irish Blessing has been an inspiration for generations. This three-movement work for strings, SSAA choir, and optional bagpipes will make an impact on your audience.
This music game is excellent for elementary programs, offering imaginative titles like “The Still Before the Storm” and “Fairy Floss”. It teaches students about keys, orchestral textures, and various techniques in an accessible way, promoting an early appreciation of music's tone color.
1. Gekko Echo
2. Still before the Storm
3. Jumpin' Jumbucks
4. Valse Sentimentale
5. Rickshaw Rally
6. Morning Star
7. Fairy Floss
8. March of the Stick Insects
9. Sunset Sarabande
10. Riding the Rapids
11. Hiccups
12. Sleepy Sandman
13. Ostinato Odyssey
14. A Stately Minuet
15. Bubbles
16. Fiddle Stick Fury
For String Orchestra Grade 1
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
Gobi Desert warriors, led by Genghis Khan, ride to China. The music's eighth notes, dissonant chords, and pounding melody vividly portray their might in battle. A calm pentatonic section shows them resting at night before moving mercilessly to the next fight.
