Heavenly Lake in Tianshan Mountain, Xinjiang, China, has a myth about a goddess who overcame a demon. The playable piece features pentatonic melodies, lush harmonies, bracing rhythms, and intricate textures.
For String Orchestra (Grade 2)
1. Mirrors of Water
2. Urns of Fire
The breathtaking Heavenly Lake lies in the majestic Tianshan Mountain range in Xinjiang Province, China. The lake is steeped in myths and legends, with one storytelling of a goddess who once bathed in its pristine waters. It is said that she bravely fought and vanquished a troublesome demon by using a hairpin to stab it, which then miraculously transformed into a magnificent elm tree on the lake's shore.
Experience the magic of the Heavenly Lake through a mesmerizing musical composition that features pentatonic melodies, lush harmonies, bracing rhythms, and intricately woven textures. This playable piece is not only a joy to rehearse but also a treat for the senses when listened to.
For String Orchestra (Grade 2)
1. Mirrors of Water
2. Urns of Fir
Citadels, or walled fortresses, were built for centuries to defend civilizations from invaders. This music explores the imagery of a strong, passionate, and fiercely protective community. The middle section creates an atmosphere of a still yet edgy night. The main theme eventually fades away as the invaders recede.
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
Two contrasting works with enduring melodies. "Let All Mortal Flesh" is dynamic, from an old French folk song. The "Drunken Sailor" arrangement is a gem, highlighting all sections. A hit with younger musicians!
1. Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silent
2. Drunken Sailor
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
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
The musette is a small French bagpipe that gained popularity in Louis XIV's time. It has a consistent G note for beginners. The "Air" is a beautiful tune from Handel's opera "Rinaldo". The set ends with a jolly bourree by the prolific composer Georg Philipp Telemann.
1. Musette
2. Air
3. Bouree
For String Orchestra Grade 2
These works are perfect for the beginner string ensemble player. They continue the earlier publication titled "A Dozen Dazzlers." They feature unison, simple parts and call-response writing and prepare the players for the greater demands of a full-string orchestra. All parts have been meticulously crafted for ease of playing and to focus on essential ensemble skills such as pizzicato, legato, staccato, and harmonics. These attractive pieces will ignite the students' imaginations.
Australia's National Anthem is a source of pride for Australians. We offer the first verse thoughtfully, with a piano part for accompaniment. A major key suits most voices. Great for school assemblies. Suitable for Grade 2 String Orchestra.
The Swans of Lir is an Irish legend about young children turned into swans by dark forces. The melody and accompaniments in "The Lake" reflect their helplessness, while "The Rejoicing" celebrates their eventual transformation back into children. The piece is scored for strings, recorders and percussion and is perfect for large concerts or festivals.
The French court of the 17th and 18th centuries was renowned for its grandeur and beauty, envied by all composers in Europe. These three works embody that spirit.
1. Marche pour la Ceremonie des Turcs
2. Les Baricades Misterieuses
3. Tambourin
For String Orchestra Grade 3
