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
In this musical composition, festival orchestras consisting of musicians of varying levels of expertise can come together and showcase their talents. The piece is composed for four-string orchestras and un-tuned percussion and draws inspiration from the mediaeval tune "L'Homme Arme", which tells the tale of a warrior brandishing his sword. The middle section of the composition features a beautiful violin solo, where the warrior, now quiet and contemplative, reflects on his experiences on the battlefield. The final section is based on the South African song "Simbayama" and is a joyous celebration of the warrior walking towards peace and liberty, leaving behind the darkness of war.
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)
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
Mozart's Ave Verum Corpus and Alleluia from "Exultate Jubilate" are two of his most cherished liturgical compositions. All the difficult melismas have been adapted without losing the original excitement.
1. Ave Verum Corpus
2. Alleluia from Exultate Jubilate
For String Orchestra Grade 3
Pleyel, Haydn's student, had exceptional musical talent. The Duet Opus 8 no. 2 is a delightful and accessible piece highlighting different parts of the ensemble, showcasing diverse musical techniques like spiccato quavers, slurred string crossings, and martel crotchets. It's a great starting point for those who want to appreciate Classical music.
This piece of music is intended for a string orchestra with a difficulty level of grade 3.
'Heart in The Highlands', inspired by Robert Burns, evokes Scotland's rugged beauty with pizzicato, harmonics, dotted rhythms, and drones.
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.
We all love our pets, and each day brings new adventures! “Presto Puppies” features rising scale patterns and surprising dissonances, while “Cantabile Kitties” captures the subdued essence of our feline friends with major seventh intervals that evoke a kitten yawning. “Con Brio Birdies” portrays birds’ chatter through repeated quavers and gentle dissonances. The suite also showcases various techniques, including harmonics and different pizzicato styles.
Carl Bohm (1844 - 1920) was a renowned composer and teacher for violinists. His famous pieces, "Moto Perpetuo" and "Galop," showcase double semiquavers and highlight the cellos in the latter. The work is shared around for everyone to shine.
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
