Impulse for String Orchestra for Level 0.5 by Brian Balmages

Hopak! by William Owens Grade 2.5

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

Dance of the Trolls for String Orchestra ( by Mike Forbes Grade 4.5 )

This fantastic arrangement of dances from the 17th century Renaissance period includes three movements, beginning with La Bouree, a lively and spirited dance. The beautiful Pavane alternates between major and minor tonalities. The final movement, Spagnoletta and Courante, is in a lilting 6/8 time. Tenor drum is optional, but highly effective and approachable. A delightful journey into the past and an excellent way to develop independence between sections. (4:15)

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 Developing Strings

Stock Code ST6485

By Mekel Rogers