The legend of Excalibur is an exciting tale that captivates young minds. King Arthur's sword, Excalibur, emerges from the waters, followed by a sword dance. The mysterious theme reappears before a thrilling finale. Written for advanced and elementary players, it's a fantastic piece for a string festival or an advanced orchestra.
For String Orchestra Grade 3 & 1.5 (advanced and optional elementary strings)
As the story of Excalibur unfolds, it effortlessly transports its listeners to a world of magic, chivalry, and the quest for the ultimate power. The opening scene sets the tone with a sense of mystery and foreboding as the legendary sword of King Arthur, Excalibur, emerges from the depths of the waters. A sword dance follows, with each movement evoking vivid images of the clashing of weapons and the resounding echoes of clashing armour. The mysterious theme returns in a scintillating manner, adding to the suspense and intrigue of the story before reaching a thrilling finale that leaves the listeners on the edge of their seats.
This work has been written for both advanced and elementary players, with the intention of delivering a fabulous conclusion to a string festival. It is a piece that can be appreciated by all music lovers, regardless of their age or experience. Even just an advanced orchestra can produce a powerful and captivating performance of this masterpiece.
For String Orchestra Grade 3 & 1.5 (advanced and optional elementary strings)
The Gloria from the Latin Mass is a joyful and energetic piece for orchestra and two-part choir, inspired by the homage to God. It is easy to play, with alternative instruments covering several parts. Male voices can sing the two vocal parts an octave lower. Each orchestra section is featured in the interludes, and the piece concludes with a lively flourish.
For full orchestra and 2-part choir - Grade 3
Kakadu National Park is known for its wildlife. One piece depicts sunrise over the water with improvisation. "Twilight Trek," the second piece, conveys a journey of adventure on foot with staccato notes, pizzicato melodies, and sudden fortes.
1. Sunrise at Kakadu
2. Twilight Trek
For String Orchestra Grade 1
Mozart composed over 30 violin sonatas during his lifetime. Among these works, only one sonata stands out for being entirely in a minor key. This particular sonata is known for its dark, brooding and energetic nature. It also features spiccato and martele articulations, which were crucial to the Classical style of music. This piece is appropriate for Grade 4 string orchestras.
"Two pieces, one idea: work hard, play hard. "The Volga Boatmen" has a shared melody and well-crafted counter-melodies. "Two Guitars" is fun and infectious, exploring spiccato quavers."
1. The Volga Boatmen
2. Two Guitars
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
Arcangelo Corelli (1653 - 1713) was a Baroque composer who set the standard for musical composition in his time. This piece is based on the last of his opus five violin sonatas, which includes twenty-four variations on the Spanish melody "La Follia". The arrangement presents five variations after the theme is introduced, with each upper-string section playing the tune fully against Corelli's original figurations. The main theme returns in an opulent manner.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
The Irish Blessing has been an inspiration for generations. This three-movement work for strings, SSAA choir, and optional bagpipes will make an impact on your audience.
