This suite of three contrasting movements is perfect for young string players. It includes fun techniques like tremolo, pizzicato, harmonics, tapping, and even screaming. Bumps in the Dark is thrilling, Far Away Dreams is gentle and thoughtful, and Shooting Stars is exciting. The suite encourages active listening within the ensemble.
Listen to #1 – Bumps in the Dark
This suite of three contrasting movements is a delightful musical journey that is sure to captivate the hearts and minds of young string players. With a range of techniques such as tremolo, pizzicato, harmonics, tapping, and even screaming, beginners will have a blast exploring the various sounds and textures. The first movement, Bumps in the Dark, is a thrilling and suspenseful piece that will keep listeners on the edge of their seats. The second movement, Far Away Dreams, is a gentle and introspective piece that allows young players to explore the beauty of lyrical playing. The final movement, Shooting Stars, is a majestic and awe-inspiring piece that evokes a sense of wonderment about the celestial spheres. Throughout the suite, the melodic interest is shared among various sections of the orchestra, encouraging active listening and collaboration within the ensemble.
Listen to #1 – Bumps in the Dark
Mazas, a renowned composer, is known for his effective etudes and chamber ensemble works. This duet for two violins, dating back to the early 19th century, showcases the late Classical and early Romantic styles. The music is characterized by sharp rhythms and lyrical melodies, making it an excellent choice for a String Orchestra at level 3.5.
Pablo Sarasate (1844-1908) was a brilliant Spanish composer and violinist known for his expressive and technically challenging pieces like "The Carmen Fantasy" and "Zigeunerweisen". While retaining the original's virtuosity, this arrangement is accessible to younger musicians.
For String Orchestra Grade 2.
The circus is thrilling! The Carousel waltz shares the melodic line. In Siberian Tigers, players can project a robust tone and imagine the majestic tigers. Happy-Sad Clowns contrasts major and minor tonalities.
1. Carousel
2. Siberian Tigers
3. Happy-Sad Clowns
For String Orchestra Grade 1
In a snowy, mythical forest, knights ride fiercely, battling dark forces. Your orchestra will enjoy the haunting melodies and thrilling momentum.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
A musical arrangement for strings, percussion, and voice with four memorable Australian folk tunes that are easy to sing along to. The vocal part can be sung by a soloist or choir, and the lyrics are included. The piece can also be played as an instrumental work.
For Full Orchestra and Voice Grade 3
Chin, Haydn Symphony No.60 1st Movement
This arrangement for strings is faithful to the original work with the added features of sharing the melodic lines, a slight editing of a few bars of the bass part, a violin 3 part and a keyboard realization. It is also an excellent way to develop Classical style spiccato in more advanced players.
