
The Irish Blessing by Stephen Chin
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.
On a stormy night, a carriage leaves for an unknown destination. Chased by someone, urgency intensifies with repeated quavers. Different string ensemble sections are highlighted—a warm middle section followed by an even greater sense of urgency. The journey ends quietly, igniting players' imaginations.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
The music here is a thrilling composition that tells the story of a carriage leaving in the middle of the night towards an unknown destination, with the tempestuous weather making the journey even more treacherous. To add to the danger, someone is in hot pursuit of the person in the carriage, making everything more urgent and intense.
The music is filled with suspense and tension, with the repeated quavers creating a sense of unease and turbulence that perfectly captures the mood of the situation. Throughout the piece, each section of the string ensemble is highlighted at various points, showcasing their unique talents and adding to the overall dynamic nature of the composition.
After a warmer middle section, the pace of the music picks up again, increasing the sense of urgency and bringing the story to a dramatic climax. Finally, the journey concludes softly as the carriage disappears into the gloomy night, leaving the listeners with mystery and intrigue. Overall, this masterpiece allows the listeners to use their imagination and immerse themselves in a thrilling tale.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
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.
This nautical-themed piece starts with violas and cellos evoking the swell of waves. The seconds create sea breeze sounds; the first violin plays the main theme energetically. Everyone gets a chance to participate, and the middle section featuring cellos is eerie. The suspenseful wait for the sea breezes to pick up again adds to the effect, and the piece ends with a fun and lively section.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
This music piece tells the legend of how the Kookaburra got its laugh. It was created for the Cooloola Shire Symphony Orchestra in Queensland, Australia, in collaboration with elders from the Nations in the area. The composition features a full orchestra, narrator, and didgeridoo. It's an engaging introduction to the orchestra for young listeners, with the didgeridoo blending well with the orchestra.
For Full Orchestra, Narrator and Didgeridoo Grade 4
Brahms adapted 21 Hungarian Dances for two pianos and later for a symphony orchestra. The 1st Dance has a brooding nature, while the 2nd Dance is characterized by wild changes in tempo and mood. Either could make a rousing finale.
1. Hungarian Dance No. 1
2. Hungarian Dance No. 2
For String Orchestra Grade 3
Greensleeves is an old English melody. This is a beautiful arrangement of the 1690 version, providing each orchestra section a chance to showcase their skills. It's a great way to appreciate the early Baroque style.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
Two great pieces for young players! "Guitar Lullaby" is based on a familiar melody with a wide range. Hold the instrument like a guitar. "Chit Chat" is a catchy call and response piece with syncopated rhythms.
1. Guitar Lullaby
2. Chit Chat
For String Orchestra Grade 1
Albeniz's piece was originally written for piano, showcasing Spanish passion and brilliance. It alludes to a legend from Asturias, with Moroccan influences. The use of string techniques adds intensity to this haunting work.
It's graded at level 3.5 for string orchestra.