
Trailblaze (FJH)
Composer: Rick Hirsch
Publisher: FJH Music Company
Series: FJH String Orchestra
Stock Code: ST6471
Twittering Machine by Brian Balmages (FJH)
Grade 2.5
Publisher: FJH Music Company
Inspired by the ambiguous 1922 artwork by Swiss-German painter Paul Klee, this dark music depicts a struggle between nature and machine. A haunting melody slowly transforms as the machine around it grows (represented by a series of layered percussion sounds). A deeply rich and powerful work for young bands that invites many opportunities for cross-curricular discussion.
Composer: Rick Hirsch
Publisher: FJH Music Company
Series: FJH String Orchestra
Stock Code: ST6471
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 English Folk Song
Arranger Morgan Denney
Publisher FJH Music Company
Series FJH Developing Strings
Stock Code ST6483
Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child
Composer: African-American Spiritual
Arranger: Carrie Lane Gruselle
Publisher: FJH Music Company
Series: FJH String Orchestra
Stock Code: ST6469
Embark on a journey across the high seas with Neridah Oostenbroek's gusty piece that captures the rogue nature of Caribbean pirates. Featuring contrasting sections and techniques such as harmonics, pizzicato, and double stops, there is never a dull moment. Sure to be a student favorite! (2:45)