Balmages, A Riverside Celebration for String Orchestra Grade 2.5 - 3 (FJH)

By Soon Hee Newbold Gr 3

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)

Dance of the Tumblers by Rimsky-Korsakov, arr. Bob Lipton Gr2.5

Bringer of War (After Holst) by Balmages (FJH)

Composer: Brian Balmages

Publisher: FJH Music Company

Series: FJH Developing Strings

Stock Code: ST6477

Feature every section of your orchestra in this swashbuckling piece! Three distinct "pirate" themes are given to the violins, violas, and cellos/basses to allow all players a chance to shine. All seafaring melodies stay in first position with minimal low-two finger patterns and lots of doubling for a big, full sound. Each section takes an adventurous turn into new tonalities before joining forces at the end for a triumphant finale! (Grade 1.5, Dur 2:40)

Arranger Timothy Loest

Publisher FJH Music Company

Series FJH Beginning Strings

Stock Code ST6466

This cleverly titled work includes three famous themes from The Planets. The swooping and fluttering sounds of Mercury, the Winged Messenger give way to the mystical tone clusters and serenity of Venus, the Bringer of Peace. The arrangement closes with the iconic militant ostinato and extreme dissonance of Mars, the Bringer of War. An exceptional arrangement. (4:30)