Citadels, or walled fortresses, were built for centuries to defend civilizations from invaders. This music explores the imagery of a strong, passionate, and fiercely protective community. The middle section creates an atmosphere of a still yet edgy night. The main theme eventually fades away as the invaders recede.
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
Throughout the ages, people have erected citadels, fortified walls enclosing their settlements to defend against would-be attackers. The scale of these fortifications varied greatly, with some, like the great citadel of Jerusalem, encompassing entire cities. The music piece at hand draws its emotive power from the interplay of pounding quavers, biting chords, and rhythmic inflexions, evoking the imagery of a resolute, passionate, and fiercely protective community. As the middle section unfurls, with its quietly bowed tremolos and ominous pizzicato, the listener is transported to a still yet electric night fraught with tension. The main theme then returns with even greater force and conviction, eventually fading as the invading forces retreat, defeated.
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
Bach, known for his exceptional music, was also a devoutly religious man. These two pieces of music serve as a testament to his faith. The arrangements highlight different sections of the ensemble as they take turns playing the beautiful melodies.
1. When Thou Art Near
2. Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring
For String Orchestra Grade 3
A musical arrangement for strings, percussion, and voice with four memorable Australian folk tunes that are easy to sing along to. The vocal part can be sung by a soloist or choir, and the lyrics are included. The piece can also be played as an instrumental work.
For Full Orchestra and Voice Grade 3
'Heart in The Highlands', inspired by Robert Burns, evokes Scotland's rugged beauty with pizzicato, harmonics, dotted rhythms, and drones.
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
Australia's National Anthem is a source of pride for Australians. We offer the first verse thoughtfully, with a piano part for accompaniment. A major key suits most voices. Great for school assemblies. Suitable for Grade 2 String Orchestra.
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
Simple music pieces with call-response writing can help beginners become confident playing in a full-string orchestra. Downloadable recorded accompaniments let students practice at their own pace. Teachers can use these pieces to transition students from solo playing to joining a string orchestra.
1. Scooter Ride | 8. Hymn |
2. Two’s Company | 9a. Open String Czardas |
3. Lament | 9b. Harmonic Czardas |
4. Windmills | 10. Siberian Shivers |
5. Topsy Turvy | 11. Cycle Circuit |
6. Innocence | 12. Mango Tango |
7. Sun Shower |
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For String Orchestra Grade 0.5-1
The Wars of the Roses was a conflict between Lancaster and York from 1455 to 1487. Composer Walter Frye wrote music during this time, including "Alas, Alas, Alas is my Chief Song," which inspired this Fantasia. The piece depicts the storms of battle and blends antiquity with contemporary style.
Fantasia on a Theme by Walter Frye (d. 1474)
for String Orchestra (Grade 3) by Stephen Chin
