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
Brahms was inspired by the folk music of Hungary and created his own unique version of 21 Hungarian Dances, which he adapted for two pianos and later for a symphony orchestra. The 1st Dance has a dark and brooding quality that allows the ensemble to focus their bow pressure into the string, producing a rich and powerful tone that captures the essence of the Hungarian spirit. In contrast, the 2nd Dance is full of unexpected changes in tempo and mood, from frantic and frenzied to soft and lyrical. Either one of these dances would be a thrilling and unforgettable finale to any concert, leaving the audience breathless and wanting more.
1. Hungarian Dance No. 1
2. Hungarian Dance No. 2
For String Orchestra Grade 3
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
"Two pieces, one idea: work hard, play hard. "The Volga Boatmen" has a shared melody and well-crafted counter-melodies. "Two Guitars" is fun and infectious, exploring spiccato quavers."
1. The Volga Boatmen
2. Two Guitars
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
This work is a companion to “Bells of Ghengis Khan”, featuring insistent rhythms and pounding fifths that create a sense of impending conflict. The middle section depicts soldiers reflecting upon their loved ones before the battle resumes, with victors’ shouts heard towards the end. The piece uses techniques such as harmonics, tremolo, and pizzicato to add richness to the tone colours.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
These pieces are from English folk songs. The Greens Bushes is about a lover who lost his beloved. The Wraggle Taggle Gypsies is about a group of nomads and their adventures.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
The Wars of the Roses was a conflict between Lancaster and York from 1455 to 1487. Composer Walter Frye wrote music during this time, including "Alas, Alas, Alas is my Chief Song," which inspired this Fantasia. The piece depicts the storms of battle and blends antiquity with contemporary style.
Fantasia on a Theme by Walter Frye (d. 1474)
for String Orchestra (Grade 3) by Stephen Chin
'Heart in The Highlands', inspired by Robert Burns, evokes Scotland's rugged beauty with pizzicato, harmonics, dotted rhythms, and drones.
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.
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