As you journey through a tropical rainforest, you can experience wonderment and awe reflected in these three miniatures. Each piece offers a different mood and tone colour for players to explore. The techniques used in these miniatures, including pizzicato, sustained notes, double quavers, and left-hand pizzicato, are easy to tackle, even for young musicians with limited experience.
1. Leaping Frogs
2. Creeping Vines
3. Fun at the Falls
For String Orchestra Grade 1
As you embark on a journey through the lush and vibrant tropical rainforest, you will be captivated by the wondrous and awe-inspiring beauty surrounding you. These three miniatures perfectly capture the essence of this natural wonderland, transporting you to a place of pure imagination and delight. Each piece offers a unique and distinct mood, with a rich and varied range of tone colours for players to explore and experiment with. The techniques used in these miniatures, such as the playful pizzicato, the ethereal sustained notes, the lively double quavers, and the mysterious left-hand pizzicato, create a truly immersive and engaging musical experience. Even the least accomplished young musicians will find these miniatures a joy to play, with their simple and accessible techniques allowing them to fully express themselves through their music.
1. Leaping Frogs
2. Creeping Vines
3. Fun at the Falls
For String Orchestra Grade 1
Mozart composed over 30 violin sonatas during his lifetime. Among these works, only one sonata stands out for being entirely in a minor key. This particular sonata is known for its dark, brooding and energetic nature. It also features spiccato and martele articulations, which were crucial to the Classical style of music. This piece is appropriate for Grade 4 string orchestras.
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.
Introduce your students to Russian classical music with "Pictures at an Exhibition" by Mussorgsky. "Promenade" links various pieces, while "Danse Caracteristique" features harmonics, syncopated accompaniments, and chromatic scales.
1. Promenade (Mussorgsky)
2. Dance Caracteristique (Rebikov)
For String Orchestra level 2.5
Ideal for a festival orchestra with players at different levels, this piece is based on the medieval melody "L'Homme Arme", depicting a sword-wielding warrior. The middle section features a violin solo as a lullaby reflecting the armed man's war experiences. The final section celebrates the armed man walking in the light of peace and liberty with the South African song "Simbayama".
For 4 string orchestras and untuned percussion - Grade 3.5, 2, 1.5 & 1
The legend of Excalibur is an exciting tale that captivates young minds. King Arthur's sword, Excalibur, emerges from the waters, followed by a sword dance. The mysterious theme reappears before a thrilling finale. Written for advanced and elementary players, it's a fantastic piece for a string festival or an advanced orchestra.
For String Orchestra Grade 3 & 1.5 (advanced and optional elementary strings)
This suite of three unique pieces is perfect for beginners looking to improve technique and musicianship. Dedicated to Andrea Messenger OAM and the Western Suburbs String Orchestra community, inspiring young musicians everywhere.
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.
Haydn's second symphony in a minor key is a classic Sturm und Drang piece with strong emotional changes. It's great for expanding classical repertoire and practising playing techniques in G minor.
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