Intense and emotional, the music evokes feelings of desperation, anxiety, and frenzy. The dark tones of G minor and rapid rhythm create a menacing atmosphere. The hammering rhythm eventually overtakes a noble melody played by the cellos.
For String Orchestra Grade 3.5
The musical composition at hand is a powerful and poignant work that elicits a range of intense emotions. The piece is marked by a sense of urgency and restlessness, with a feeling of desperation and anxiety running throughout. The G minor key, paired with a relentless and frenzied rhythm, creates a dark and menacing atmosphere that is both haunting and captivating. The introduction of a noble theme played by the cellos adds a touch of elegance and refinement to the piece, only to be overpowered by the relentless hammering of the rhythm. The music is both driving and expressive, with musicians sure to appreciate the intricate and nuanced qualities of the piece.
For String Orchestra Grade 3.5
The Iching, a series of texts created by Emperor Zhou in the 9th century BC China, helps interpret thoughts and dreams. Its orchestral representation features an energetic section that paints a vibrant life in ancient China and concludes with thrilling cascades of repeated sixteenth notes.
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
Experience a captivating musical journey to Kyoto with “Two Silk Screens from Kyoto” by Stephen Chin. This evocative string orchestra piece beautifully reflects Japanese culture through graceful melodies and intricate harmonies. Immerse yourself in its meditative ambiance, as the strings evoke vivid images of cherry blossoms and serene landscapes.
Stephen Chin: “These two pieces were inspired by my visit to Japan. They capture memories of the country's beauty, contrasting the elegance of cranes by a lake with the dynamic movements of samurai. I frequently used the Japanese scale, Hirajōshi, along with other pentatonic scales throughout the set.”
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
An excellent piece to introduce Early Music to students. Most rhythms are simple, with some quavers in the first violin part. Improvised percussion parts can be added for authenticity.
1. La Bergamesca
2. Schiralazula Marazula
3. Minni Amor
4. Dance
5. Il Canario
For String Orchestra Grade 1
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.
For String Orchestra Grade 2
No need to wait years to perform Grieg's "Holberg Suite" with your ensemble. This arrangement is true to the original but with less tricky figurations. It features off-string work, trills, accented quavers, light legato bowing, martele and pizzicato to make the performance sparkle!
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
In Greek mythology, the Furies brought the dead to the Underworld and were part of the legend of Orpheus. August Nolck's piece was originally for cello but is now perfect for developing string players' timing precision. The perpetual motion promotes refined right-hand movements and offers opportunities for section solos.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
