Debussy was inspired by mysticism and exotic items. He combined Gregorian chant with Eastern influences in "Funeral Urn" and showcased his unique style with "The Girl with the Flaxen Hair". Students will enjoy the challenging rhythms and harmonies in these works.
1. Funeral Urn
2. The Girl with the Flaxen Hair
For String Orchestra Grade 4
Debussy was a composer who often sought inspiration from the mystical and exotic. His works were characterized by a unique blend of different musical styles and influences. In "Funeral Urn," Debussy masterfully combined the solemnity of the Gregorian chant with the exoticism of Eastern music, creating a haunting and unforgettable piece. "The Girl with the Flaxen Hair" is a poignant composition that showcases Debussy's mastery of harmony and rhythm. The piece is known for its delicate and intricate melodies, which evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing. Students will appreciate the intricate harmonies and rhythmic challenges presented in these works, a testament to Debussy's genius as a composer.
1. Funeral Urn
2. The Girl with the Flaxen Hair
For String Orchestra Grade 4
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
Kakadu National Park is known for its wildlife. One piece depicts sunrise over the water with improvisation. "Twilight Trek," the second piece, conveys a journey of adventure on foot with staccato notes, pizzicato melodies, and sudden fortes.
1. Sunrise at Kakadu
2. Twilight Trek
For String Orchestra Grade 1
Arcangelo Corelli (1653 - 1713) was a Baroque composer who set the standard for musical composition in his time. This piece is based on the last of his opus five violin sonatas, which includes twenty-four variations on the Spanish melody "La Follia". The arrangement presents five variations after the theme is introduced, with each upper-string section playing the tune fully against Corelli's original figurations. The main theme returns in an opulent manner.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
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
An excellent piece to introduce Early Music to students. Most rhythms are simple, with some quavers in the first violin part. Improvised percussion parts can be added for authenticity.
1. La Bergamesca
2. Schiralazula Marazula
3. Minni Amor
4. Dance
5. Il Canario
For String Orchestra Grade 1
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
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
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
