
Trailblaze (FJH)
Composer: Rick Hirsch
Publisher: FJH Music Company
Series: FJH String Orchestra
Stock Code: ST6471
Dragon Slayer for string ensemble by Robert Grice
A Grade 1 level ensemble piece arranged for violin 1, violin 2 (or viola), viola, cello, double bass, piano and percussion
Using only six notes and note values no smaller than a quarter note, Rob Grice has managed to compose a piece that every beginning band student will want to play. Brake drum and gong contribute to the overall effect as your band embarks on its adventurous journey to a world where dragons roam free and no one is safe. Mild dissonance is approached very well — if you're looking to fire up your youngest players, this is your answer!
A full length recording of this work can be downloaded from the following link:
https://www.fjhmusic.com/strings/mp3/st6100.mp3
Composer: Rick Hirsch
Publisher: FJH Music Company
Series: FJH String Orchestra
Stock Code: ST6471
Composer Richard Wagner
Arranger Robert D. McCashin
Publisher FJH Music Company
Series FJH String Orchestra
Stock Code ST6467
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)
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
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)
Arranger Timothy Loest
Publisher FJH Music Company
Series FJH Beginning Strings
Stock Code ST6466