Pachelbel's most famous work is "Canon in D," but he also composed many other pieces, including concerti, keyboard suites, and organ compositions. The Sarabande features a circle of fifths bass with varied sections. Bohm's Rigaudon is a lively Baroque dance.
1. Sarabande
2. Rigadoun
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
Johann Pachelbel, a renowned German composer, is widely recognized for his masterpiece "Canon in D," which has become one of the most popular and recognizable pieces of classical music. However, his musical contributions go far beyond this iconic piece, as he composed an extensive range of works, including concerti, keyboard suites, and organ compositions.
One of his notable compositions is the beautiful Sarabande, which is built on a bass that outlines the circle of fifths. The piece is a testament to Pachelbel's exceptional talent, as each section has been varied to create even greater interest, making it a timeless piece of music that continues to captivate audiences.
The Rigaudon, composed by German Baroque composer George Bohm, is another noteworthy piece of music. This lively dance showcases the charm and proportion that is characteristic of Baroque music, and its energetic rhythm never fails to inspire joy and a sense of celebration.
1. Sarabande
2. Rigadoun
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
Lux Angelis is an advanced string orchestra piece with optional grade 1 and 2 strings, keyboard, and percussion. It represents light pervading the universe through harmonics and suspended chords. The seventh interval symbolizes the seven days of creation, while the two sections portray the challenges of dark forces. The piece ends with a chorus of angels bathed in light, symbolizing light's resilience.
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 piece for lower intermediate string orchestra features familiar sea shanties. All orchestra sections share the melody, making it dynamic and effective for nautical music lovers.
For String Orchestra Grade 2
No need to wait years to perform Grieg's "Holberg Suite" with your ensemble. This arrangement is true to the original but with less tricky figurations. It features off-string work, trills, accented quavers, light legato bowing, martele and pizzicato to make the performance sparkle!
For String Orchestra Grade 2.5
Lords of the Loch is a festival piece for string orchestra, quartet, and optional string ensemble. It's inspired by Finlaggan, a Scottish loch with islands once ruled by lords known for producing and exporting harps.
For String Orchestra(s) Grades 1, 3.5 & 4
Dig Tree and The Elegy reflect Australia's early explorers' unfortunate fate, while Goin' Overland captures the excitement of exploring the outback. The latter features various string techniques that highlight the Australian essence of the music.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
Showcase your beginner strings and concert band in an orchestra with this fun rondo piece written in the Hungarian style. The wind, strings and full orchestra each have their own chance to shine, and the manageable note values and pitch repertoire make it perfect for novices.
