The Bee By Stephen Chin

Schubert's Sonatina Op. 137, No. 1's Allegro molto movement, originally for violin and piano, has been arranged for strings, making it more accessible.

Composer Franz Schubert was a skilled violinist who wrote over 12 string quartets by age 19. His first three violin sonatas, including Sonata No. 1 in D major, D 384, were later published as Sonatinas in 1836. The charming piece of music is relatively easy to perform.

Schubert's "März 1816" sonata has an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a small ensemble. It features three movements: Allegro molto, Andante, and Allegro vivace. The Allegro molto is a lively and fast-paced movement, followed by a slower, more contemplative Andante. The piece concludes with a rousing Allegro vivace.

This piece gradually expands harmony from a unison note, highlighting interesting texture. Younger musicians learn dissonance through gentle tonal clashes, while elementary players explore different bow speeds and lengths. It's a great introduction to the power of a string orchestra.

For String Orchestra Grade 1

This is an excellent intro to Early Music. Arbeau's second piece was later used in "Capriol Suite" by Peter Warlock. To add authenticity, improvise and add bass drum or tambour parts.

1. Bransle

2. Pavan

3. Ballo Furlano

For String Orchestra Grade 1.5

Two Italian Baroque masterpieces in contrast - Sarabande and Gigue. Simple melody with suspensions in Sarabande, orchestra showcases string crossings and quaver figuration in Gigue.

For String Orchestra Grade 2.5

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

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.

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