

Brave Spirit for String Orchestra Level 3
Inspired by the autobiography 'Chinese Cinderella', this spirited and unique string work incorporates a pentatonic scale to help paint a picture of a young Chinese woman who struggles for acceptance in a primarily patriarchal society. The work begins with a duet between violin and cello, symbolizing a conversation between the girl and her grandfather, before taking off into a joyful dance. The middle section reflects the inner peace that the author, Ms. Mah, strived for, before returning to the more lively melody. Brave Spirit is a unique work in the string literature and has a powerful story to tell that your students will surely be enthralled by!
Space Ninja is an energetic piece for young orchestra and percussion. Featuring an accentuated spiccato rhythmic melody, this composition combines Eastern sounds with sonorous Western harmonies. It is a great piece to introduce the key of C Major/A minor to a young string group, and the excitement generated by the unique rhythmic approach and percussion will provide for a great change of pace on any program. (1:48)
Ivan Ivanovici, Romanian Waltz for String Orchestra. Arranged by Cameron Law. Published by Grand Mesa Music.
This whimsical Khachaturian theme is perfect for teaching intervals and chromatic fingerings. Violas use half position, and first violins will shift to third position. Cellos and violas are featured in the second theme, and this abridged arrangement omits the middle section. A more advanced full transcription for string orchestra is also available. (355152)
This gorgeous string work would be appropriate for any concert, but would be especially fitting in a memorial concert. Starting with a haunting piano chord progression the solo piano leads to a melancholic melody in the violins. The B section then gives the cellos a chance to show off their abilities to emote. After the piece builds to an intense forte it gradually fades back into the opening chord pattern. This unusually beautiful string work will leave your audience moved emotionally and impressed with your groups ability to play with great sensitivity and expressiveness. (3:49)
In this wonderfully evocative piece of music Bobrowitz describes a deep water dive to find a long lost city. This compelling musical journey conveys a sense of ever-deepening awe at the magical underwater seascape. All sections of the orchestra contribute to the melodic fabric of this unique musical journey. (4:16)