Inspired by The Planets by Gustav Holst, this original piece pays homage to the first movement, Mars. Using only six notes in all instruments, the music still has a powerful quality that dares the listener to embrace the bold, majestic melodies and rhythmic ostinato. A unique original that invites further study of a master composer.
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)
Inspired by an incredible display of stars the composer experienced in Hawaii, this piece portrays the ponderous and expansive beauty of the night sky. Broad, sustained notes make extensive use of full bows, ideal for reinforcing bow control and purity of tone. A stunning work with gorgeous harmonies and colors sure to charm your audience. (3:45)
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
Feature a guest artist or star student in this piece that includes an advanced level violin solo along with a more approachable solo for the younger, yet ambitious student. Well within the technical grasp of young orchestras, the music is designed to allow the soloist to display both technique and lyricism as the piece moves through a series of "diversions" held together by a common theme. Inspiring for your students and your audience! (4:30)
Following the slow introduction, Beethoven's first symphony breaks into a lively and energetic Allegro, carrying listeners through a whirlwind of harmonies and keys. This arrangement authentically captures the lyricism and raw power of a masterpiece written by a young 29-year-old Beethoven. (4:00)
