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
As soon as the piece begins, the listener is transported to an atmosphere of mist and damp earth, evoking a sense of timelessness. The music paints a vivid picture of people from a bygone era, dancing with unbridled energy and joy. The piece is rich with a multitude of melodies and counter-melodies that dart and weave seamlessly between different sections of the orchestra. Meanwhile, the middle section showcases a beautiful and intricate solo by the string quartet, which is then punctuated by powerful tutti utterances. Throughout the piece, the audience and performers alike are treated to a wide array of textures, dynamic shifts, and hauntingly beautiful melodies that come together to form a truly captivating work of art.
For String Orchestra Grade 3.5
Originally for string quintet, this piece was arranged by Boccherini for guitar and string quartet. Castanets add a Spanish touch. Boccherini explored diverse textures and string effects within the Classical Period. The music's elegance and vibrancy captivate players and audiences alike.
For String Orchestra Grade 3.5
Martin Peerson's "The Fall of the Leafe" depicts a beautiful autumn day with descending notes. Susato's "Battle Pavan" was part of court entertainment and featured a call-and-response style.
1. The Fall of the Leafe
2. Battle Pavan
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
Debussy was inspired by mysticism and exotic items. He combined Gregorian chant with Eastern influences in "Funeral Urn" and showcased his unique style with "The Girl with the Flaxen Hair". Students will enjoy the challenging rhythms and harmonies in these works.
1. Funeral Urn
2. The Girl with the Flaxen Hair
For String Orchestra Grade 4
This is an excellent intro to Early Music. Arbeau's second piece was later used in "Capriol Suite" by Peter Warlock. To add authenticity, improvise and add bass drum or tambour parts.
1. Bransle
2. Pavan
3. Ballo Furlano
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
Hand-picking cotton is a gruelling task. 19th-century rural Americans sang to support each other. This piece starts with different players for each bar, evoking the image. The "Praising Song" celebrates the end of a tough day. An elementary ensemble will shine playing the double quavers, pizzicati, and syncopated beats.
1. Cottonfield Calls
2. Praising Song
For String Orchestra Grade 1
Stephen Chin admires the power of earth-moving equipment and the creativity of humans who push boundaries in the sciences and arts. He likens their groundbreaking efforts to the driving force found in the key of G minor, characterised by strong themes and the frequent use of downbows.
Pleyel, Haydn's student, had exceptional musical talent. The Duet Opus 8 no. 2 is a delightful and accessible piece highlighting different parts of the ensemble, showcasing diverse musical techniques like spiccato quavers, slurred string crossings, and martel crotchets. It's a great starting point for those who want to appreciate Classical music.
This piece of music is intended for a string orchestra with a difficulty level of grade 3.
