Easy Street is a collection of six short pieces suitable for beginner string students. The pieces have a limited note range (open strings, octave harmonics and the notes of the D string) and feature unison playing. They use repeated notes and simple rhythmic patterns, making them easy to learn and ideal as confidence-building performance pieces. A piano part provides the musical context for the pieces, which is also available as a backing track on the Laker Music website.
"High Seas Adventure" is a musical composition with a distinct nautical theme. The captivating tune is passed around the orchestra, taking young players on an exciting journey aboard an old sailing ship. Brace yourself for some dramatic moments!
Listen to it - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nolkHmdeoZU
Level 0.5-1 is a beginner piano set. It includes two Russian-style pieces with a solo violinist. There are two versions of Harmonic Rock. "Where the Wind Blows" is a D-grade primary school piece for second-year learners with expressive left-hand techniques.
Listen to it - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvX6-79Oz0o
"Evening Prayer for String Orchestra" by Timo Jarvela is a beautifully crafted and meditative piece that showcases the power and beauty of string instruments. It's a perfect choice for relaxation or reflection.
Listen to it - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkRWmtn8kzU
Rice Paddy Dreaming by Timo Jarvela helps young players learn dotted crotchet-quaver rhythms and introduces them to the col legno technique. The piece has a dreamy, soothing melody and should be played comfortably with a flowing tempo, complemented by the piano accompaniment.
Composed by Timo Jarvela, Carriage Ride is a lively and fun piece perfect for Grade 1 piano students. The piece starts with a cheerful introduction and progresses to a playful and energetic melody, providing an engaging and entertaining experience for students to develop their skills and musicality.
Russian Fantasy is a captivating piece for advanced players that displays various musical moods. It requires skills like navigating through tempo changes, diverse stroke techniques, and expressing different emotions. Animato Strings is an excellent place to buy sheet music for this piece or any other composition. Their collection caters to different skill levels and instruments.
Fiddle Tune is a simple melody in A and D major that helps young players move their bow arms. It can be played in unison, and octave harmonics are optional. An optional tacet at ‘B’ and “pizz ‘n slap” accompaniment provide a final challenge.
Ostinato Mysteriato is a mature-sounding piece in A Mixolydian. It’s based on a repeating pattern passed around the orchestra, which challenges young players. The piano part is optional but adds a nice touch.
Windward Waltz for String Orchestra is a graceful and elegant composition by Timo Jarvela that evokes a feeling of calmness and relaxation. The piece showcases the composer's skilful ability to weave together intricate melodies and harmonies into a cohesive and harmonious whole. Overall, it's a beautiful and enchanting piece of music that will delight audiences of all ages.