Port Fairy and the Twelve Apostles are two of Australia's most scenic places. The Gentle Boats at Port Fairy plays Irish music, while Storm over the Twelve Apostles depicts the fury of Mother Nature on the stone formations by the southern coast.
Australia's scenic beauty is truly unmatched, and Port Fairy and the Twelve Apostles are two of the most picturesque places that the country has to offer. Port Fairy is a charming village with a peaceful atmosphere, characterized by its blue stone cottages, rock walls, and fishing boats. The enchanting musical ensemble, The Gentle Boats at Port Fairy, delights all with its wistful melodies, tinged with an Irish flavour. On the other hand, Storm over the Twelve Apostles is a powerful musical work that vividly captures the awe-inspiring sight of Mother Nature's fury unleashed on the magnificent stone formations that majestically rise up from the ocean on the southern coast.
Stephen Chin, an Australian composer and teacher, is currently the Principal String Teacher at Brisbane Grammar School. He has composed numerous educational pieces as well as compositions for student string orchestras.
On a stormy night, a carriage leaves for an unknown destination. Chased by someone, urgency intensifies with repeated quavers. Different string ensemble sections are highlighted—a warm middle section followed by an even greater sense of urgency. The journey ends quietly, igniting players' imaginations.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
Join the Barcelona party! This piece captures the fun and energy of the Spanish city with catchy rhythms and authentic flavour. Your ensemble will love it.
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
The French court of the 17th and 18th centuries was renowned for its grandeur and beauty, envied by all composers in Europe. These three works embody that spirit.
1. Marche pour la Ceremonie des Turcs
2. Les Baricades Misterieuses
3. Tambourin
For String Orchestra Grade 3
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
This work alludes to Noah's Flood and the rainbow as a symbol of peace. The dream-like opening leads to a turbulent episode with a shared theme. Second orchestra parts are optional but exciting. Great for players of different levels.
For Intermediate and optional Elementary Strings - Grade 2 & 1
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
After the snowy start, climbers get to work. The fast melody depicts their chiselling on an icy rock face. A calm middle section shows the view from the top before the chiselling continues down. Younger players will love this energetic piece with catchy tunes and strong harmonies.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
