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
Both of these musical compositions are deeply rooted in the rich and vibrant tradition of English folk songs. The Greens Bushes is a poignant and melancholic piece that tells the story of a lover who has lost his beloved to someone else. The use of legato bowing, harmonics, and gentle pizzicato notes creates a sense of longing and wistfulness that is sure to tug at the heartstrings of the listener.
In contrast, The Wraggle Taggle Gypsies is a lively and spirited piece that captures the free-spirited nature of a wandering group of nomads and their hilarious exploits. The bold and robust notes used in this composition evoke a sense of adventure and excitement as if the listener is right there with the gypsies on their journey. Together, these two pieces showcase the incredible range and versatility of English folk music.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
Heavenly Lake in Tianshan Mountain, Xinjiang, China, has a myth about a goddess who overcame a demon. The playable piece features pentatonic melodies, lush harmonies, bracing rhythms, and intricate textures.
For String Orchestra (Grade 2)
1. Mirrors of Water
2. Urns of Fire
This rhapsodic work by Vittorio Monti captures the vibrant elements of Gypsy music and has been popularized in film and pop music. The arrangement includes two versions: one showcases each orchestra section, while the other features a solo violin supported by accompanying strings.
Listen to the two versions included in this product below:
Czardas – Version 1 – Showcase Strings Monti arr. Chin
Czardas – Version 2 – Solo Violin, Optional Solo 2nd Violin & Strings Monti arr. Chin
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
Simple music pieces with call-response writing can help beginners become confident playing in a full-string orchestra. Downloadable recorded accompaniments let students practice at their own pace. Teachers can use these pieces to transition students from solo playing to joining a string orchestra.
1. Scooter Ride | 8. Hymn |
2. Two’s Company | 9a. Open String Czardas |
3. Lament | 9b. Harmonic Czardas |
4. Windmills | 10. Siberian Shivers |
5. Topsy Turvy | 11. Cycle Circuit |
6. Innocence | 12. Mango Tango |
7. Sun Shower |
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For String Orchestra Grade 0.5-1
The Irish Blessing has been an inspiration for generations. This three-movement work for strings, SSAA choir, and optional bagpipes will make an impact on your audience.
Experience a captivating musical journey to Kyoto with “Two Silk Screens from Kyoto” by Stephen Chin. This evocative string orchestra piece beautifully reflects Japanese culture through graceful melodies and intricate harmonies. Immerse yourself in its meditative ambiance, as the strings evoke vivid images of cherry blossoms and serene landscapes.
Stephen Chin: “These two pieces were inspired by my visit to Japan. They capture memories of the country's beauty, contrasting the elegance of cranes by a lake with the dynamic movements of samurai. I frequently used the Japanese scale, Hirajōshi, along with other pentatonic scales throughout the set.”
Originally written for wind ensemble and later arranged for pianoforte, these charming movements have been carefully placed to give the sense of a fully integrated work. Some elements of this work are similar in vein to Mozart's famous "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik." Advanced intermediate players will enjoy the challenges of spiccato quavers, martele crotchets, measured tremolo, and lifted upbows, which are a must for developing precision and clarity in a more advanced string ensemble.
For String Orchestra Grade 3
In Greek mythology, the Furies brought the dead to the Underworld and were part of the legend of Orpheus. August Nolck's piece was originally for cello but is now perfect for developing string players' timing precision. The perpetual motion promotes refined right-hand movements and offers opportunities for section solos.
For String Orchestra Grade 1.5
