Experience a captivating musical journey to Kyoto with “Two Silk Screens from Kyoto” by Stephen Chin. This evocative string orchestra piece beautifully reflects Japanese culture through graceful melodies and intricate harmonies. Immerse yourself in its meditative ambiance, as the strings evoke vivid images of cherry blossoms and serene landscapes.

Stephen Chin: “These two pieces were inspired by my visit to Japan. They capture memories of the country's beauty, contrasting the elegance of cranes by a lake with the dynamic movements of samurai. I frequently used the Japanese scale, Hirajōshi, along with other pentatonic scales throughout the set.”

Kakadu National Park is known for its wildlife. One piece depicts sunrise over the water with improvisation. "Twilight Trek," the second piece, conveys a journey of adventure on foot with staccato notes, pizzicato melodies, and sudden fortes.

1. Sunrise at Kakadu

2. Twilight Trek

For String Orchestra Grade 1

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.

Simple music pieces with call-response writing can help beginners become confident playing in a full-string orchestra. Downloadable recorded accompaniments let students practice at their own pace. Teachers can use these pieces to transition students from solo playing to joining a string orchestra.

For String Orchestra Grade 0.5-1

Genghis Khan, a feared warrior, and his soldiers ride through Mongolia into China. The piece's driving rhythms and accented chords create an atmosphere of strength and awe in battle. A gentler middle section uses the pentatonic scale, perhaps as Khan rests. The work concludes with a surge of energy as he moves towards his next battle.

For String Orchestra Grade 1.5

Showcase your beginner strings and concert band in an orchestra with this fun rondo piece written in the Hungarian style. The wind, strings and full orchestra each have their own chance to shine, and the manageable note values and pitch repertoire make it perfect for novices.

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.