"Arctic Fire" is a mesmerising composition that takes the listener on a journey of tonal surprises. The sound of the first violin harmonics is piercing and ethereal, evoking the image of blowing ice in a desolate Arctic landscape. The piece features effective textures and shifts in melody, with even the bass having a significant solo. It's a powerful composition that inspires musicians to let their imaginations soar.
The sound of the first violin harmonics in "Arctic Fire" is piercing and ethereal, evoking the image of blowing ice in a desolate Arctic landscape. As the music progresses, it takes the listener on a journey through a world of tonal surprises, featuring an array of techniques such as glissando, pizzicato, metrical changes, harmonics, tremolo, and drones. The piece is masterfully crafted, utilising effective textures that create a unique listening experience. A string quartet harmonises with the rest of the ensemble in one section, creating a beautiful and complex sound. The melody shifts throughout the composition, with each note leading seamlessly into the next. Even the bass has its moment to shine, with a significant solo that adds depth and richness to the piece. "Arctic Fire" is a composition that inspires musicians to let their imaginations soar and truly feel the power of the music.
Hand-picking cotton is a gruelling task. 19th-century rural Americans sang to support each other. This piece starts with different players for each bar, evoking the image. The "Praising Song" celebrates the end of a tough day. An elementary ensemble will shine playing the double quavers, pizzicati, and syncopated beats.
David Maddick compiled “Chinwagging” from the most popular tunes in “Thirty Concert Pieces” by Everything String. The piece teaches fundamental string techniques to young ensemble members, such as legato bowing, string crossing, re-taking, and right/left-hand pizzicato. It’s an enjoyable and solid introduction to foundational concepts.
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.
Pleyel, a renowned musician and entrepreneur in early 19th century Paris, wrote a beautiful piece for two violins in the late Classical style. The piece follows the sonata form and features a brooding first theme contrasted with an impish second theme played in staccato quavers. The movement ends with a lively duel between the violins, adding vibrancy and passion to the piece. Your orchestra will love it!
A funky rooster tune with staccato bowing and a catchy melody is featured in this rondo-style piece. The "cock-a-doodle-do" rhythm is present throughout, and the descending bass line adds to the rag-tune feel. Perfect for an early morning rehearsal!
Stephen Chin admires the power of earth-moving equipment and the creativity of humans who push boundaries in the sciences and arts. He likens their groundbreaking efforts to the driving force found in the key of G minor, characterised by strong themes and the frequent use of downbows.
This piece for lower intermediate string orchestra features familiar sea shanties. All orchestra sections share the melody, making it dynamic and effective for nautical music lovers.
