This suite is perfect for young beginners. The Four Little Pieces use a limited range of notes and are mostly played in unison, but the piano part is still interesting. The suite includes a CD with multi-speed piano accompaniments, and the violin, viola, and cello parts can be performed individually as solos.
Contents:
• Curtain Raiser
• Little Belle's Waltz
• Back Street Boogie
• Cowboy Lane
Listen to it - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mo7eRiQPD-k
This charming suite is designed for young musicians who are just beginning to learn. The Four Little Pieces have been thoughtfully created using a limited range of notes and are mostly played in unison. However, the piano part is still musically interesting, guaranteeing a memorable performance for both the player and the audience. The Four Little Pieces also comes with a CD that includes multi-speed piano accompaniments for rehearsals and when a pianist is unavailable. Furthermore, the violin, viola, and cello parts can be performed individually as solo pieces.
Contents:
Instrumentation: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass and Piano
Duration: 6.00 (total)
Keys: D major, A major
Grade: 0.5-1
"Pine Rivers Hoedown" is a lively, hoedown-style musical piece perfect for young players. Each part has a strong melody, with the bass providing rhythm and harmony. If a bass is unavailable, the piano part covers the line. Consider an additional desk for 1st violins, as the 2nd violins and violas share the same part. It's a fun and upbeat piece that young players will enjoy.
Listen to it - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTLvtHVXJg4
"Storm Rider for String Orchestra" is a fast-paced, Grade 2.5 composition by Timothy Jarvela that tells the thrilling story of a lone rider escaping their pursuers on a stormy night. The piece demands good ensemble precision and supple bow work from all players, making it a challenging and rewarding piece for intermediate-level string orchestras.
"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
"Fiddlin' to Freedom" is a Timo Jarvela composition for string orchestra. The piece starts with a spiritual-style intro, followed by a lively gospel-style tune with a distinct fiddlin flavour. The instrumentation includes Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3/Viola, Cello, Bass, and Piano. It's graded at level 2 and has a duration of 3.00.
Listen to it - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNL8dTNcjnY
"A Mixed Bag" is a collection of six popular folk songs and nursery rhymes, including Frere Jacques, Hot Cross Buns, Mary Had A Little Lamb, Twinkle Twinkle, Au Claire de la Lune, and This Old Man. This arrangement presents them in interesting and sometimes surprising harmonic contexts, which makes it appealing to both young players and audiences. The instrumentation includes Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3/Viola, Cello, Bass, and Piano. The piece has a duration of 3.00 minutes and is graded 1.5.
Listen to it - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-qWhs9Q-UM
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.
"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
Laker Music - suppliers of educational music for student string orchestra/ensembles.
Level 0.5
Instrumentation: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Piano
