The musette is a small French bagpipe that gained popularity in Louis XIV's time. It has a consistent G note for beginners. The "Air" is a beautiful tune from Handel's opera "Rinaldo". The set ends with a jolly bourree by the prolific composer Georg Philipp Telemann.
1. Musette
2. Air
3. Bouree
For String Orchestra Grade 2
The musette is a delightful French bagpipe that acquired immense popularity during the reign of Louis XIV. This charming instrument features a small leather bag attached to a chanter and a drone. Interestingly, the musette is unique in that it plays a constant note G throughout, allowing for beginners to develop their pitch and tone.
One of the most enchanting melodies in the musette repertoire is the "Air", which is a stunning piece taken from Handel's opera "Rinaldo". This beautiful tune will transport you to another world with its sublime harmonies and evocative melodies.
Finally, the set concludes with a very jolly bourree by Georg Philipp Telemann, a prolific composer of the Baroque era. This playful and lively piece is bound to leave you feeling uplifted and energized.
1. Musette
2. Air
3. Bouree
For String Orchestra Grade 2
Ghost ships have been a mystery for centuries, dating back to ancient Greek mythology. The music piece starts with an eerie opening and transitions into an alluring theme, played by the first section, which is later repeated by other sections. The "Sailor's Dance" is an energetic and attractive tune featuring a group of soloists before a stirring conclusion.
1. Ghost Ship
2. Sailors Dance
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
The Midnight Serenade starts with faint calls of the night. The haunting melody is shared throughout the piece over a waltz-like accompaniment. Dark Train is a dynamic composition based on a simple three-note ostinato, with whistle effects that excite younger players.
1. Midnight Serenade
2. Dark Train
For String Orchestra Grade 1
This nautical-themed piece starts with violas and cellos evoking the swell of waves. The seconds create sea breeze sounds; the first violin plays the main theme energetically. Everyone gets a chance to participate, and the middle section featuring cellos is eerie. The suspenseful wait for the sea breezes to pick up again adds to the effect, and the piece ends with a fun and lively section.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
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
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.
ES 133
The Iching, a series of texts created by Emperor Zhou in the 9th century BC China, helps interpret thoughts and dreams. Its orchestral representation features an energetic section that paints a vibrant life in ancient China and concludes with thrilling cascades of repeated sixteenth notes.
