

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 every section of your orchestra in this swashbuckling piece! Three distinct "pirate" themes are given to the violins, violas, and cellos/basses to allow all players a chance to shine. All seafaring melodies stay in first position with minimal low-two finger patterns and lots of doubling for a big, full sound. Each section takes an adventurous turn into new tonalities before joining forces at the end for a triumphant finale! (Grade 1.5, Dur 2:40)
Contemporary and fresh, this energetic romp is shrouded in a sense of excitement and anticipation. Highly rhythmic with a pop flair, the melody combines with an infectious rhythmic groove and hip bass line to keep everything driving forward. A rousing ensemble ending pulls out all the stops - a sure crowd pleaser! (3:45)
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)
Swashbucklers Saga by Chris Thomas (Grade 2.5) FJH