A matryoshka is a Russian doll carved so that smaller ones fit within larger dolls of various sizes. They generally are beautifully hand painted in brilliant colors representative of the Russian peasantry. Matryoshka is a musical composition incorporating three diverse Russian folk songs very much like the Russian dolls...one song following the other.
This bright change-of-pace work evokes the toe-tapping sounds of the old west as settlers circle the wagons round for a Saturday night hoedown. Featuring athletic, yet very playable fiddle-style tunes that wander throughout the ensemble, the music also uses simple double-stops and contrasting rhythms that keep things moving along.
Hamilton is without question the most creative, talked-about musical to hit Broadway this millennium. In this standout selection from the show, the lead characters lay out their plans for victory, despite their personal hardships. Arranged for strings and a vocalist by Paul Lavendar and Larry Moore, this is a clever way to connect orchestra students with contemporary music.
Along with Morning Bus Ride and Lunchtime Jam, educator and composer Ron DeGrandis brings us solid teaching and terrific programming pieces to beginning level string students.