Daniel Steibelt (1765-1823) composed elegant pieces that embody the Classical period's poise and vivacity. His piece includes an Andante section with beautiful melodies and an Allegro con brio section that presents a fun challenge for students. The E minor middle section highlights the first violins' talent and is perfect for String Orchestra Grade 2.
1. Andante
2. Allegro con brio
Daniel Steibelt (1765 - 1823), a brilliant and accomplished pianist from the 18th and 19th centuries, created a set of charming and elegant compositions that perfectly capture the poise and vivacity of Classical period music. The Andante section of the piece enables the strings to showcase their legato playing, which produces a beautiful and sonorous melody. The Allegro con brio section presents a fun challenge for students as they lift their bows and play the lively crotchet-minim theme. The E minor middle section is an excellent opportunity for the first violins to display their talent and dexterity, as the melodic line is effectively shared throughout. This piece is perfect for String Orchestra Grade 2 and is a beautiful addition to any repertoire.
1. Andante
2. Allegro con brio
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
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
Lux Angelis is an advanced string orchestra piece with optional grade 1 and 2 strings, keyboard, and percussion. It represents light pervading the universe through harmonics and suspended chords. The seventh interval symbolizes the seven days of creation, while the two sections portray the challenges of dark forces. The piece ends with a chorus of angels bathed in light, symbolizing light's resilience.
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 Cliffs of Moher, rising about 200 meters above the Atlantic on Ireland's west coast, are home to many birds and sea life, such as grey seals and dolphins. In this work, I aimed to capture the feeling of sea spray, the beauty of green pastures, and the vibrant atmosphere of nearby towns, using musical textures such as pizzicato, sustained notes, bass melodies, and a reflective violin solo.
This music piece is based on an old English hymn that depicts a journey to hope, titled To the Palace of Light. It has a solemn beginning, turbulent middle, and faster, jig-like ending. Elements of the hymn can be heard throughout, making it a great choice to end a concert or festival.
For double string orchestra, grades 2 & 4
In a snowy, mythical forest, knights ride fiercely, battling dark forces. Your orchestra will enjoy the haunting melodies and thrilling momentum.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
Port Fairy and the Twelve Apostles are two of Australia's most scenic places. The Gentle Boats at Port Fairy plays Irish music, while Storm over the Twelve Apostles depicts the fury of Mother Nature on the stone formations by the southern coast.
