Arabesque (Grade 2) For String Orchestra

Arabesque art consists of a series of repeating, interlocking geometric patterns that often echo the forms of plants and animals. To followers of Islam, the arabesques symbolise their united faith and are usually found decorating the walls of mosques. As an ornamental frieze or border, the Arabesque's continuous elaborations - leaf-like and curlicued, in which each leaf grows out of the tip of another - have their counterparts in music, which is primarily decorative rather than emotional in its intent.

Arabesques are often classical piano pieces in music, usually in 2/4 or 4/4 meter. Best known of these are perhaps Debussy's Deux Arabesques, composed in 1888 and 1891. Thus, the Arabesque title refers to the clever interweaving and playful linking of simple, classical melodies in a delightful miniature for strings.

Keith Sharp completed his Bachelor of Music degree in 1984 before accepting the position of string educator in the Gap region of Brisbane, Australia, where he continues to teach. In 1995, Keith completed a postgraduate diploma in education. Throughout his teaching career, Keith has produced award-winning string programs and ensembles while pursuing his passion for composition. His exquisitely crafted and imaginative works are highly popular throughout Australia and, more recently, have been discovered by teachers in the United States, Great Britain, and Germany. Keith maintains an active schedule as a clinician, guest conductor, and guest lecturer.