In The Dreams Of Zhou – Version For Guzheng And Strings By Stephen Chin
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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.
In The Dreams Of Zhou – Version For Guzheng And Strings By Stephen Chin
As the ninth century BC dawned, Emperor Zhou held the reins of power in China. This era marked the genesis of the I Ching, a series of divination texts that could help one interpret one's thoughts and dreams. The Dreams of Zhou, a mesmerizing musical composition, is a testament to that time. It commences with an expanse of harmonics that shroud a truly plaintive melody, which gradually leads into an energetic section that evokes many aspects of what one would imagine to be a vibrant life in ancient China. At one point, all the main themes are combined to create a genuinely dreamlike state, transporting the listener to the depths of their subconscious. The composition concludes with thrilling cascades of repeated sixteenth notes, leaving one with a sense of awe and wonderment.
This work is a companion to “Bells of Ghengis Khan”, featuring insistent rhythms and pounding fifths that create a sense of impending conflict. The middle section depicts soldiers reflecting upon their loved ones before the battle resumes, with victors’ shouts heard towards the end. The piece uses techniques such as harmonics, tremolo, and pizzicato to add richness to the tone colours.
Ignaz Joseph Pleyel was a renowned musician and entrepreneur who established a famous publishing house in Paris. This work, originally for two violins, embodies a late classical style with contrasting themes and a brighter ending. Your orchestra will enjoy this effective arrangement.
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!
These two South American-inspired tangos feature chromatic scales, harmonics, syncopated rhythms, and a range of textures. The main tunes and accompaniments are easy to play and share within the ensemble. Cello plays a high A.
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.
Evaristo Felice Dall'Abaco and Antonio Vivaldi lived during the same era. Dall'Abaco's piece features an opening Prelude and a Ciaconna that includes variations on a fixed bass. This Baroque piece introduces players to various musical textures.
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.
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.