Balmages, Blue Ridge Reel for String Orchestra Grade 3 (FJH)
For adaptable string ensemble. An exciting venture into the world of bluegrass based on one of the composer's most popular works for band. (2:45)
Balmages, Arith-Metric No. 1 for String Orchestra Grade 3 (FJH)
An exciting piece that explores self-paced developing music for literally any combination of instruments. Inspired by Terry Riley's In C, the piece includes short fragments that performers move through at their own pace. Explore pacing, development and orchestration with this piece that works for literally any possible combination of instruments!
Thomas, Baile de Lila for String Orchestra Grade 3 (FJH)
This authentic and vibrant work brings the sound and spirit of Mariachi to the string orchestra! Complete with strumming passages, catchy syncopated figures, and energetic melodies, the piece also includes parts for an optional guitar ensemble to really add some flavor! Many principal players have solo opportunities in this passionate, colorful salute to traditional Mexican music. Unique and a ton of fun! (3:00)
Thomas, Beauty and Fire (The Quest Begins) for String Orchestra Grade 3 (FJH)
In a world of sorcerers, magic, elven warriors, and fantastical creatures, anything is possible. This musical adventure continues the story from Thomas's popular Land of Dragons. In this chapter, a lively band of warriors join the quest. The music includes fierce rhythmic interplay, syncopation, and soaring melodies. A solo ocarina (optional violin or flute) and a lively percussion section add to the cinema-style orchestration. An entrancing addition to your concert program! (3:30)
Oostenbroek, Hoedown Showdown for String Orchestra Grade 3 (FJH)
Get ready to have some fun with this energetic western-style romp! Showcasing a melody that weaves its way through every section, the piece also makes use of open string drones and syncopated rhythms, bringing the country-style flair to life. Outstanding and infectious! (2:30)
Whittington, Urbanicity for String Orchestra Grade 3 (FJH)
Contemporary and fresh, this energetic romp is shrouded in a sense of excitement and anticipation. Highly rhythmic with a pop flair, the melody combines with an infectious rhythmic groove and hip bass line to keep everything driving forward. A rousing ensemble ending pulls out all the stops - a sure crowd pleaser! (3:45)
Mozart arr. Gruselle, Symphony No. 19, Movement 4 for String Orchestra Grade 3 (FJH)
This arrangement is rich with pedagogical and musical opportunity! Written by a 16-year-old Mozart, it is in Rondo form with distinct key centers to establish hand patterns and excellent intonation. It uses sudden dynamic changes for dramatic effect, reinforces off-the-string bowing, and further develops speed and facility in the left hand. A complete package from the Classical era! (3:45)
Balmages, Greater Than... for String Orchestra Grade 3.5 (FJH)
Commissioned by the National String Project Consortium, this gorgeous lyrical work can be performed alone as an intermediate level piece, or with multi-level supplemental parts (available separately) for beginning and developing string students. Orchestrated to celebrate inclusion and diversity, the multi-level option is designed to sound far "greater than" the intermediate version alone. Not your traditional festival orchestra piece by any means. (Grade 3, Dur 5:40)
Legionary by Chris Thomas
Lullaby to the Moon for String Orchestra
Handel arr. McCashin, Larghetto and Allegro from Sonata No. 4 for String Orchestra Grade 3.5 (FJH)
This outstanding pair of contrasting movements moves from a plaintive and pleading Larghetto to an Allegro with all the cheer and sparkle one can imagine. An exceptional opportunity to work on the music of Handel while providing a wealth of opportunities for musical development! (5:15)