Two Treasures from the Ming Dynasty (Stephen Chin) for String Orchestra
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
Two Treasures from the Ming Dynasty (Stephen Chin) for String Orchestra
The Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) was a remarkable period in China’s history, characterised by extensive exploration and the opening of trade routes to Europe, Africa, and across the Indian Ocean. During this time, China's population doubled. The Imperial Court became the center of a flourishing arts scene, producing remarkable achievements in literature, music, painting, sculpture, and ceramics. It also served as a gathering place for important visitors from distant countries.
In the arts, the calming image of the lotus and the dynamic portrayal of horses were often used to express the serenity and strength of the court. The music of this era featured sustained notes, open strings, harmonics, energetic retakes, and driving quavers, all of which reflected these sentiments.
1. Lotus
2. Imperial Horses
8 other products in the same category:
Gobi Warriors By Stephen Chin
Gobi Desert warriors, led by Genghis Khan, ride to China. The music's eighth notes, dissonant chords, and pounding melody vividly portray their might in battle. A calm pentatonic section shows them resting at night before moving mercilessly to the next fight.
Five Renaissance Pieces by Stephen 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
The Mariner's Tale By Stephen Chin
Inspired by "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner", this festival piece is for eight-string orchestras and percussion. It starts with a wall of sound, then a mournful melody, and a lively jig-like section. Only Orchestra A needs to play percussion.
For eight string orchestras and percussion - Level 4, 3, 2, 1.5, 1
Rooster Rag By Stephen Chin
A funky rooster tune with staccato bowing and a catchy melody is featured in this rondo-style piece. The "cock-a-doodle-do" rhythm is present throughout, and the descending bass line adds to the rag-tune feel. Perfect for an early morning rehearsal!
For String Orchestra Grade 2
Allegro Molto by Franz Schubert arr. Stephen Chin
Schubert's Sonatina Op. 137, No. 1's Allegro molto movement, originally for violin and piano, has been arranged for strings, making it more accessible.
Composer Franz Schubert was a skilled violinist who wrote over 12 string quartets by age 19. His first three violin sonatas, including Sonata No. 1 in D major, D 384, were later published as Sonatinas in 1836. The charming piece of music is relatively easy to perform.
Schubert's "März 1816" sonata has an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a small ensemble. It features three movements: Allegro molto, Andante, and Allegro vivace. The Allegro molto is a lively and fast-paced movement, followed by a slower, more contemplative Andante. The piece concludes with a rousing Allegro vivace.
Two Debussy Masterpieces By Stephen Chin
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
La Tempesta di Mare (Stephen Chin) for String Orchestra
La Tempesta di Mare is the overture to Salieri's opera, Cesare in Farmacusa. It narrates the journey of the young Julius Caesar as he sails through a treacherous storm to Farmacusa, near Sicily. The plot is filled with pirates, gypsy lovers, and, of course, Roman gods, providing much entertainment for audiences of that time.















