Enjoy your food, move your body to the beat, and have fun! This amazing set of seven compositions even features a piece by Henry VIII. Intermediate musicians will appreciate the diverse range of musical styles from different regions of the Renaissance era. The homophonic writing style is ideal for developing precise intonation and consistent bowing techniques.
For String Orchestra Level 2
As you sit down to your meal, let the music of the Renaissance transport you to another time and place. This remarkable collection of seven compositions, which even includes a work by Henry VIII, offers a delightful variety of styles from different parts of Europe. Intermediate players will relish the chance to explore these diverse musical traditions, while the homophonic writing style encourages the development of accurate intonation and uniform bowing techniques. So go ahead, indulge in good food, dance to the music, and immerse yourself in the magic of the Renaissance.
For String Orchestra Level 2
This music piece is based on an old English hymn that depicts a journey to hope, titled To the Palace of Light. It has a solemn beginning, turbulent middle, and faster, jig-like ending. Elements of the hymn can be heard throughout, making it a great choice to end a concert or festival.
For double string orchestra, grades 2 & 4
"Arctic Fire" is a mesmerising composition that takes the listener on a journey of tonal surprises. The sound of the first violin harmonics is piercing and ethereal, evoking the image of blowing ice in a desolate Arctic landscape. The piece features effective textures and shifts in melody, with even the bass having a significant solo. It's a powerful composition that inspires musicians to let their imaginations soar.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
The Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) was a remarkable period in China’s history, characterised by extensive exploration and the expansion of trade routes to Europe, Africa, and the Indian Ocean, which resulted in a nearly doubled population. The Imperial Court became a hub for the arts, showcasing a diverse range of talents in literature, music, painting, sculpture, and ceramics. Artistic representations often depicted the calming lotus and dynamic horses, symbolising both serenity and strength, while music featured sustained notes and energetic rhythms that echoed these themes.
1. Lotus
2. Imperial Horses
This piece for lower intermediate string orchestra features familiar sea shanties. All orchestra sections share the melody, making it dynamic and effective for nautical music lovers.
For String Orchestra Grade 2
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
Canon in D by Johann Pachelbel is a beautiful piece for string orchestra. This arrangement includes optional adaptations to suit different instruments and grade levels. A universally cherished work, now more inclusive!
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
The music is a journey through the Mists of England, the lush green fields of Ireland, Wales's sublime beauty, and Scotland's invigorating highlands. The tunes and textures are vibrant, wistful, and unforgettable, making them perfect for any performance. Your players will be humming them long after the rehearsal is over.
Listen to #1 – Mists of the Winter Solstice
Listen to #2 – Road to County Derry
