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.
A Noble Entrance For String Orchestra by Keith Sharp
This enchanting piece of music, Pavane, is crafted in the style of entrance music typically played during Elizabethan celebrations such as masques and weddings. Its unique 2/2 swing tempo is accented with occasional 3/2 meter variations, adding a delightful rhythmic spice to the piece. The melody is highly expressive, featuring long, flowing melodic lines passed between the ensemble's different parts. The piece is technically simple and playable in the first position, yet its broad musical and tonal range makes it a captivating choice for ensembles of varying skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner, this piece will leave a lasting impression.
Keith Sharp earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1984. He’s been a string educator in Brisbane since then, creating award-winning programs and compositions. His works are popular in Australia and internationally. Keith is also a clinician, guest conductor, and guest lecturer.
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.
Click Go the Shears is a delightful adaptation of a traditional Australian folk song for beginner players. It features an optional and exquisitely crafted piano accompaniment. Simple violin lines can be played singly with the piano.
Keith Sharp is a string educator in Brisbane, Australia. He received his degree in 1984 and a post-graduate diploma in 1995. Keith produces award-winning string programs and compositions popular in Australia and internationally. He is also active as a guest conductor, clinician, and lecturer.
"Riders of Rohan" is an exciting, grade 2.5-3 piece for string orchestra in B minor. It features galloping rhythms and sonorous cello/bass melodies, with an approximate duration of 2:20. The composer, Keith Sharp, is a string educator in Brisbane, Australia, and an active clinician, guest conductor, and 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.
"The Dwarf March" is a beautiful piece of music written in A minor for string orchestra, graded at level 1.5/2, lasting for 2.00. It features a cello and bass melody with a repeated quaver texture in the violins. The folio includes the conductor's score, optional piano accompaniment, and an excerpt from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit."
Keith Sharp is a renowned music educator and composer from Brisbane, Australia. He has won several awards for his innovative string programs and ensembles and is an active clinician, guest conductor, and lecturer.
"Emu Rag" by Keith Sharp is a fun and lively music piece for a grade 3 string orchestra. Its catchy rhythms and melodies make it an excellent choice for young musicians looking for upbeat and joyful music. It's popular among music educators and offers an opportunity to learn about different playing techniques and musical styles. Overall, it's a fantastic addition to any string orchestra's playlist.
Keith Sharp earned a Bachelor of Music degree in 1984. He's been a string educator in Brisbane since then, creating award-winning programs and compositions. His works are popular in Australia and internationally. Keith is also a clinician, guest conductor, and guest lecturer.
"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.
Angharad’s Feast," composed to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Brisbane’s Western Suburbs String Orchestra and honor founder Andrea Messenger, premiered in November 2019. The piece represents a family gathering, with each string section symbolizing different family members: first violins as energetic children, second violins as guiding parents, violas as aunties and uncles, and double basses and cellos as wise grandparents. With a warm and charming folk-style theme, the composition beautifully encapsulates the spirit of family, music, and life.
