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.
Caulderon (Grade 3) for String Orchestra by Keith Sharp
This programmatic piece describes the mythical floating city of Caulderon. According to the legends, long ago, Caulderon stood magnificently upon a cliff overlooking the ocean. It was filled with impossibly tall, shining spires standing above golden domes. Sunlight striking its spires is said to have blinded potential invaders. The people of Caulderon lived in health, wealth, and safety, derived from the city’s alchemy. They rode griffons and resided peacefully amongst a variety of friendly creatures.
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.
This musical score offers a charming escape to old-time dancing during World War I, with lovely Mexican touches. Shared themes between sections, informed educational design and a manageable length make it perfect for ensembles. Duration: 2:50 in D major.
Keith has been teaching at Brisbane’s state schools since 1985. He composes imaginative pieces for string students, some of which have been published by The FJH Music Company and Alfreds. Keith has received multiple awards and recognition for his contributions to music education. He appears as a guest clinician, composer, teacher, and conductor at schools, music camps, and workshops. Additionally, Keith co-authors the beginner series Encore On Strings - Music Maestros.
"On the Road Again for String Orchestra (Level 2)" is a cheerful and lighthearted piece by Keith Sharp, suitable for primary school ensembles and younger middle school students. The music has a charming country sound that evokes the feeling of singing and driving. The contrast between folk-style rhythms and a legato theme creates a lovely balance in the music and helps to teach bowing techniques. The music is graded at level 2, with an approximate duration of 2:20, and is in the key of G Major.
"A Little Summer Suite for String Orchestra" by Keith Sharp features three unique parts. "Sun Bleached" is bright and cheerful, "Rain Come Down: A Prayer" is peaceful, and "Downpour!" is fast-paced and exciting. Perfect for grade 1 level musicians.
Keith Sharp is a string educator who earned his Bachelor of Music degree in 1984. He has produced award-winning string programs and ensembles while pursuing his passion for composition. Keith's works are famous in Australia and have been discovered by teachers in the United States, Great Britain, and Germany. He is also active in conducting workshops, guest conducting, and delivering lectures.
'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.
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.
"Serious Kookaburra Business" is a 2006 folio by Music House String Publications containing Keith Sharps's arrangement of the popular Australian song "Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree". The arrangement is graded level 1, D major, and suitable for young musicians. This folio features instrumental settings of children's songs in English from Australia and is copyrighted by Larrikin Music Publishing Pty Ltd. and Music House String Publications Pty Ltd.
Keith Sharp is a music educator in Brisbane, Australia. He has won awards for his string programs and compositions, popular with teachers in the United States, Great Britain, and Germany. Keith is also a guest lecturer, clinician, and conductor.
Two contrasting dances are linked, creating a classic ternary form. The first dance has a driving rhythm and repeated accents. A four-bar solo bridge leads to the succeeding dance with a graceful, modal theme. The Two Courtly Dances are easy to play yet catchy and appealing to various ages. The piece has four string lines and an optional piano. The viola doubles either the first or second violins throughout.
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.
The Crocodile Hornpipe is a piece of music for varying skill levels. Upper strings play in 1st position; lower strings play an easy chromatic walking bass—lively crocodile theme played by 3rd violins, violas, and cellos with a spiccato texture. Later, a 1st violin fiddle-style descant is added. Bass line anchors arrangement—optional piano part for more support.
