A captivating rendition of the popular birthday song with an exciting introduction, a slower version in a minor key, a lively variation, and a familiar major key ending. It's perfect for learning chromaticism and the G minor key.
Get ready for a fascinating and unconventional arrangement of the birthday song that's sure to captivate your attention. The piece commences with a whirlwind of an introduction that creates an air of excitement and curiosity. Following this, the song transitions to a more sombre and alluring version of Happy Birthday in a minor key. This section provides a unique musical experience that is both intriguing and captivating. Subsequently, the piece builds momentum and energy, leading to a more energetic and lively variation of the song. Finally, the arrangement concludes with the traditional version of the song in a major key that everyone knows and loves. The piece is a fantastic way to reinforce the concepts of chromaticism and the key of G minor.
Two Italian Baroque masterpieces in contrast - Sarabande and Gigue. Simple melody with suspensions in Sarabande, orchestra showcases string crossings and quaver figuration in Gigue.
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
The Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) was a remarkable period in China’s history, characterised by extensive exploration and the expansion of trade routes to Europe, Africa, and the Indian Ocean, which resulted in a nearly doubled population. The Imperial Court became a hub for the arts, showcasing a diverse range of talents in literature, music, painting, sculpture, and ceramics. Artistic representations often depicted the calming lotus and dynamic horses, symbolising both serenity and strength, while music featured sustained notes and energetic rhythms that echoed these themes.
1. Lotus
2. Imperial Horses
This piece gradually expands harmony from a unison note, highlighting interesting texture. Younger musicians learn dissonance through gentle tonal clashes, while elementary players explore different bow speeds and lengths. It's a great introduction to the power of a string orchestra.
For String Orchestra Grade 1
This piece uses dynamic change and harmonics to evoke the beauty and mystery of the stratosphere.
Dedicated to Stephen's wonderful wife, Ann. Grade 3.
Join the Barcelona party! This piece captures the fun and energy of the Spanish city with catchy rhythms and authentic flavour. Your ensemble will love it.
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 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.
