In the Steppes of Central Asia by Alexander Borodin, Arr. by Lee Stevens (SO Grade 3)
From its opening chords to its strong finish, Drive races forward, alternating between syncopated rhythms and soaring melodies. Beginning in the key of A minor, two opposing melodic patterns emerge. The use of silence becomes an effective change of pace as the piece modulates to B minor, recapping familiar motives to a lively finish with all forces at fortissimo! (3:22)
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)
This classic work was adapted/extracted from a larger scored work that Joseph Haydn wrote while in the service of Prince Nicholas Esterhazy. The original work contained a number of wind parts that in this arrangement have been excluded, but this fine arrangement works beautifully nonetheless as a string-only work. Playing the Rondo-Finale will introduce your students to the well-proportioned pleasures of Classical music, as well as the rondo form. (3:22)
