Introduce your students to Russian classical music with "Pictures at an Exhibition" by Mussorgsky. "Promenade" links various pieces, while "Danse Caracteristique" features harmonics, syncopated accompaniments, and chromatic scales.
1. Promenade (Mussorgsky)
2. Dance Caracteristique (Rebikov)
For String Orchestra level 2.5
Immerse your students in the enchanting world of noble Russian music! "Pictures at an Exhibition" is a magnificent work by Mussorgsky that takes the listener on a journey through a gallery of paintings. The "Promenade" serves as a musical bridge between the paintings, changing as the listener moves from one artwork to the next. This arrangement ingeniously combines two contrasting renditions, creating a harmonious and captivating experience. "Danse Caracteristique" is a stunning piece that showcases the beauty of harmonics, syncopated accompaniments, and chromatic scales, all working together to support a range of magnificent melodies. Your students will be transported to a world of wonder and beauty through the power of Russian classical music.
1. Promenade (Mussorgsky)
2. Dance Caracteristique (Rebikov)
For String Orchestra level 2.5
Pablo Sarasate (1844-1908) was a brilliant Spanish composer and violinist known for his expressive and technically challenging pieces like "The Carmen Fantasy" and "Zigeunerweisen". While retaining the original's virtuosity, this arrangement is accessible to younger musicians.
For String Orchestra Grade 2.
This set of twelve short pieces is for basic orchestras and helps young musicians learn important string techniques. The pieces incorporate hissing, slapping of instruments, foot stomping, and improvisation to make playing in a string ensemble more enjoyable.
1. Pickin' 'n' Peckin'
2. Desert Nights
3. War Zone
4. Bagpipes
5. Attack of the Flying Insects
6. Raindrops
7. A Pirate's Shanty
8. Valse Enchante
9. Silk
10. Hootenanny Hoedown
11. Russian Easter Hymn
12. Surf's Up!
For String Orchestra Grade 1
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
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.
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
Ideal for a festival orchestra with players at different levels, this piece is based on the medieval melody "L'Homme Arme", depicting a sword-wielding warrior. The middle section features a violin solo as a lullaby reflecting the armed man's war experiences. The final section celebrates the armed man walking in the light of peace and liberty with the South African song "Simbayama".
For 4 string orchestras and untuned percussion - Grade 3.5, 2, 1.5 & 1
