March of the Metro-Gnome for Orchestra by John Caponegro

“La Llorona” is a 6-minute programmatic piece for a high school string orchestra with optional percussion. It tells a story based on a Spanish/Mexican legend of La Malinche, a noble Aztec girl sold into slavery to Mayan merchants. The music starts with an Entrada, signalling the arrival of the Spanish fleet led by Cortés, who colonized Mexico.

La Malinche was a translator and mistress to the conqueror Cortés. She had twin boys with him, but when he was convinced to return to Spain with a Spanish aristocrat, La Malinche realized the hopelessness of her situation and drowned herself and her children in a nearby river.

"Snapdragons" is a Grade 1.5 music piece by Keith Sharp for string orchestra. It's eight pages long, 30 cm long, and includes a conductor's score and parts. Its duration is 2:40. Published in 2010 by Music House String Publications Pty Ltd, it's known for its catchy tunes and provides young string orchestra players an excellent opportunity to showcase their skills.

Keith Sharp is a distinguished string educator based in the Gap region of Brisbane, Australia. He has produced award-winning string programs and ensembles and is passionate about composition. Keith has gained recognition from teachers in the United States, Great Britain, and Germany. He also maintains an active schedule as a clinician, guest conductor, and guest lecturer.

This piece, titled "Arianna," is openly romantic and expressive in its theme. It features an energetic introduction with a commanding cello/bass subject and a lyrical theme presented by the first violins. The composition invites the string ensemble to explore phrasing and balance in a bel canto setting. It also includes a foreboding middle section with a haunting B minor melody. The composition concludes with diminishing lines that may feature solos or front desks, bringing the listener and player satisfaction.

Chromatic glissandi, walking bass, and piano accompany a slow blues melody played by violins. The tune encourages vibrato and sounds excellent in the third or first position. The third violin/viola part is simple, while cellists can enjoy their chromatic pizzicato. The piano line is crucial. It's an original "concert novelty" that generates interest.

Keith Sharp is a renowned composer and string educator based in Brisbane, Australia. He has produced award-winning string programs and ensembles while pursuing his passion for composition. Unfortunately, his work "Bilge Rat Blues for String Orchestra" is currently out of print and unavailable.

'Sailing Home' is an upbeat sea shanty played in 6/8 time. The violin parts, played in the first position, are challenging and exciting. The middle section changes to D major, adding contrast to the piece. Overall, it's a lively and enjoyable composition.

Caulderon was renowned for its magical prowess. Alchemy saved the city from imminent collapse into the sea and raised it into the air. According to Elfin legends, the floating city would occasionally visit other lands, carried by the winds. During these visits, the people of Caulderon would trade their magical wares with the locals. However, the visits were always short, and the city’s movements depended on the winds.

"Far From Home" is a beautiful 1.45-minute piece by Keith Sharp for string orchestra. It is suitable for Grade 2 players and has a wistful melody that explores rich G-string sounds. The harmony/descant and bass parts are optional, and there's an optional vocal line too. This flexible piece is an excellent addition to your library.

Keith Sharp is an award-winning string educator and composer in Brisbane, Australia. He received his Bachelor of Music degree in 1984 and a postgraduate diploma in education in 1995. Keith is also involved in the music education community as a clinician, guest conductor, and lecturer.

This Pavane, written in the style of entrance music for an Elizabethan masque, wedding or other festive occasion, has a characteristic 2/2 swing with the occasional injection of 3/2 meter for rhythmic variety and spice. It is lyrical in essence, featuring long melodic lines passed between the parts. Technically straightforward and playable in the first position, the musical and tonal scope of the piece affords interest to a broad spectrum of ensemble standards.

Keith Sharp is a Brisbane-based string educator, composer, and guest lecturer. He earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1984 and has created award-winning programs and popular compositions worldwide.