Vivaldi wrote many concertos for different instruments, including one for mandolin and strings. The composition's formal structure remains unaltered, but some intricate figurations have been tweaked. The music creates a dialogue between the orchestra's sections as they share the melody. The Baroque string crossings and harmonic progressions make the piece enjoyable to play.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
Vivaldi was a prolific composer who created an impressive catalogue of concertos for a vast array of instruments. The piece, originally composed for mandolin and strings, showcases his virtuosity in crafting complex, ornate figurations. Although some of these figurations have been slightly adapted, the fundamental harmonic and formal structures of the composition remain unaffected.
The music features a delightful sense of dialogue between different sections of the orchestra as they share the melodic line, creating a rich and dynamic texture. Furthermore, players will relish the opportunity to perform the customary Baroque string crossings, which require precision and skill, as well as the familiar harmonic progressions that underpin the music. Overall, the piece exudes an effervescent energy that is characteristic of Vivaldi's style and will undoubtedly captivate both performers and listeners alike.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
Pachelbel's most famous work is "Canon in D," but he also composed many other pieces, including concerti, keyboard suites, and organ compositions. The Sarabande features a circle of fifths bass with varied sections. Bohm's Rigaudon is a lively Baroque dance.
1. Sarabande
2. Rigadoun
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
Chin, Haydn Symphony No.60 1st Movement
This arrangement for strings is faithful to the original work with the added features of sharing the melodic lines, a slight editing of a few bars of the bass part, a violin 3 part and a keyboard realization. It is also an excellent way to develop Classical style spiccato in more advanced players.
The music is filled with lively melodies and counter-melodies that dance around the orchestra. The middle section features a string quartet solo interrupted by tutti utterances. The work offers a wide range of textures, dynamics, and haunting tunes that will captivate both players and audiences alike.
For String Orchestra Grade 3.5
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
Ideal for a festival orchestra with players at different levels, this piece is based on the medieval melody "L'Homme Arme", depicting a sword-wielding warrior. The middle section features a violin solo as a lullaby reflecting the armed man's war experiences. The final section celebrates the armed man walking in the light of peace and liberty with the South African song "Simbayama".
For 4 string orchestras and untuned percussion - Grade 3.5, 2, 1.5 & 1
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!
For String Orchestra Grade 3.5
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.
For String Orchestra Grade 1
"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.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
