"Good-bye Budapest" is a traditional Hungarian czardas-style music piece. It begins with a haunting melody and languid strings, which then transition into a joyous free-for-all with various orchestra sections taking turns. A melancholic solo violin rendition is followed by the return of the czardas in D major, culminating in a ferocious presto. The music showcases a range of emotions, from introspection to frenzied joy and melancholy to ferocity.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
As the name suggests, "Good-bye Budapest" is a piece of music that embodies the essence of the traditional Hungarian czardas style. The composition commences with a haunting melody accompanied by languid strings, evoking a sense of deep introspection. The music then changes course and transforms into a frenetic free-for-all, where different orchestra sections take turns showcasing the main theme. The resulting sound is a joyful cacophony that is both exhilarating and awe-inspiring.
The music then turns melancholic with a stunning rendition of the opening melody, played by a solo violin. The trembling upper strings and plucked lower strings create an eerie atmosphere, adding a mysterious element to the work. The return of the czardas brings back the joyous sound in the key of D major, but the section is quickly cut short, and the music concludes with a ferocious presto that leaves a lasting impression.
Overall, "Good-bye Budapest" is a composition that showcases the full range of emotions that music can evoke. This piece has everything from soul-searching to frenzied joy and from melancholy to ferocity.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
This suite of three unique pieces is perfect for beginners looking to improve technique and musicianship. Dedicated to Andrea Messenger OAM and the Western Suburbs String Orchestra community, inspiring young musicians everywhere.
This rhapsodic work by Vittorio Monti captures the vibrant elements of Gypsy music and has been popularized in film and pop music. The arrangement includes two versions: one showcases each orchestra section, while the other features a solo violin supported by accompanying strings.
Listen to the two versions included in this product below:
Czardas – Version 1 – Showcase Strings Monti arr. Chin
Czardas – Version 2 – Solo Violin, Optional Solo 2nd Violin & Strings Monti arr. Chin
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
Mazas, a renowned composer, is known for his effective etudes and chamber ensemble works. This duet for two violins, dating back to the early 19th century, showcases the late Classical and early Romantic styles. The music is characterized by sharp rhythms and lyrical melodies, making it an excellent choice for a String Orchestra at level 3.5.
This work is a companion to “Bells of Ghengis Khan”, featuring insistent rhythms and pounding fifths that create a sense of impending conflict. The middle section depicts soldiers reflecting upon their loved ones before the battle resumes, with victors’ shouts heard towards the end. The piece uses techniques such as harmonics, tremolo, and pizzicato to add richness to the tone colours.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
'Heart in The Highlands', inspired by Robert Burns, evokes Scotland's rugged beauty with pizzicato, harmonics, dotted rhythms, and drones.
As you journey through a tropical rainforest, you can experience wonderment and awe reflected in these three miniatures. Each piece offers a different mood and tone colour for players to explore. The techniques used in these miniatures, including pizzicato, sustained notes, double quavers, and left-hand pizzicato, are easy to tackle, even for young musicians with limited experience.
1. Leaping Frogs
2. Creeping Vines
3. Fun at the Falls
For String Orchestra Grade 1
