Balmages, Little Critters for String Orchestra Grade 1 (FJH)
$108.00
The vivid imagery of "little critters" scurrying about at night inspires the melodic lines and creative harmonies used throughout this programmatic work. Beginning soft and mischievous, the music builds as new critters join the fun in a playful dialogue. The harmonic language moves between moments of pleasant consonance and slight dissonance (because as we all know, some people love little critters and some people are terrified of them!). A highly imaginative, playable work! (Grade 1, Dur 2:15)
This spectacular arrangement features four movements from Tchaikovsky's famous Album for the Young. Opening with the endearing Morning Prayer, the piece then moves into the lighthearted waltz, The Hurdy-Gurdy Man. The beautiful Sweet Dream sets the stage for the delightful last movement, March of the Wooden Soldiers. Remarkably faithful to the original while also quite accessible to younger students! (6:30) https://www.youtube.com/embed/OWyCCVwxY9A
This brilliant march in grand concert style works beautifully for strings! A powerful melodic line combines with strong rhythms and moving harmonic shifts as the piece unfolds. After a wonderful exchange of the opening themes, the piece moves into an energetic coda with a riveting ending. A perfect performance piece at concert or festival as well as an ideal change of pace for any program! (2:00)
