
Water Music (Minuet And Bourree) (FJH)
Composer George Frideric Handel
Arranger Carrie Lane Gruselle
Publisher FJH Music Company
Series FJH Beginning Strings
Stock Code ST6481
Composer Felix Bartholdy Mendelssohn
Arranger Robert D. McCashin
Publisher FJH Music Company
Series FJH String Orchestra
Stock Code ST6465
Written after Mendelssohn visited Fingal's Cave off the coast of Scotland, this music showcases the composer's comment that it is "in pictures, ruins and natural surroundings that I find the most music." Throughout the overture, one feels the undulation of the sea, the swirling waters washing up onto the formation, and the mesmerizing enchantment of his experience. (3:15)
Composer George Frideric Handel
Arranger Carrie Lane Gruselle
Publisher FJH Music Company
Series FJH Beginning Strings
Stock Code ST6481
Electric Sinfonia for String Orchestra (Grade 2.5) by Lauren Bernofsky
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)
Composer Chris Thomas
Publisher FJH Music Company
Series FJH String Orchestra
Stock Code ST6484
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)
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)