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.
Grade 2.5 duration approx 2:20
The Crocodile Hornpipe is a piece of music that an ensemble of varying skill levels can play. The upper-string players will play in 1st position throughout the piece. Meanwhile, the lower string players will perform an easy chromatic walking bass that will be played pizzicato and arco at different times. The lively theme, reminiscent of a familiar crocodile song, will be played by the 3rd violins, violas, and cellos. This theme will be accompanied by an upper string repeated spiccato texture. Later in the piece, a joyful 1st violin fiddle-style descant will be added. The bass line will play an important role in anchoring the arrangement, and an optional piano part may be used for additional textural and rhythmic support.
Keith Sharp obtained his Bachelor of Music degree in 1984 and started working as a string educator in the Gap region of Brisbane, Australia, where he still teaches. In 1995, he completed a post-graduate diploma in education. Throughout his teaching career, Keith has created award-winning string programs and ensembles while pursuing his passion for composition. His beautifully crafted and imaginative works are highly popular in Australia and have gained recognition from teachers in the United States, Great Britain, and Germany. Keith remains active in his field and often works as a clinician, guest conductor, and lecturer.
This work caters to a broad range of student standards and sits well in the first position for all violins and violas. The cello and bass pass briefly into the second position. The simple, snappy theme is reminiscent of another well-known crocodile song. Other features include repeated spiccato textures in the upper violins, a cello pizzicato walking bass and a first violin fiddle-style break. The bass line anchors the arrangement, and the piano provides optional texture and support. An effective piece and fun for all! “Cleverly written for all parts.” - AUSTA Q Review, Feb 1998.
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.
Fiddlers greet the king as he enters his court. This Elizabethan-style piece is perfect for creating a royal ambience. All instruments have exciting parts, and low strings are divided into melody and harmony, providing flexibility for directors. It's an excellent choice for any occasion!
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.
Arabesque art features repeating geometric patterns, often found in mosques. The style mimics plants and animals and symbolises the unity of faith in Islam. Arabesques are also classical piano pieces, like Debussy's Deux Arabesques, composed in 1888 and 1891, featuring playful linking of simple melodies.
Keith Sharp has been a renowned string educator in Brisbane's Gap region since 1984. He has produced award-winning string programs and compositions well-known in the United States, Great Britain, and Germany. Keith is also an active clinician, guest conductor, and lecturer.
The Wild West and contemporary US composers inspired this piece. It has an idiomatic cowboy feel, with lively lines and a pleasing middle section. The outer sections have a dynamic ensemble energy, and there are opportunities for bowing techniques and position work.
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 Wild Colonial Boy" is a ballad about Jack Doolan, an Irish-Australian bushranger who was captured and killed by troopers. The song's nostalgic character is portrayed through lyrical part-writing, pizzicato, and tremolo effects. This arrangement, set in D major, features interesting lines for all players. Adding it to your concert line-up is a great way to introduce an Australian classic.
A Celtic Gathering For String Orchestra (Grade 3) by Keith Sharp captures the essence of Celtic music with its traditional rhythms, haunting melodies, and catchy tunes. The piece is skillfully arranged for young performers and showcases their virtuosity using technical elements. It will surely delight audiences of all ages and challenge young performers to improve their skills.
Fiddle Fever by Keith Sharp is a lively country-style music piece for string orchestra. It has memorable intertwining lines passed among the sections, supported by a bass line and an optional piano accompaniment. Perfect for all ages, this piece will make you tap your toes and enjoy some real toe-tappin' fiddlin' with your partner!
Keith Sharp is a celebrated music teacher in Brisbane, Australia. He has a Bachelor of Music degree and a postgraduate diploma in education. Keith is known for his exceptional string programs, ensembles and compositions. His music is popular in Australia and internationally. Keith is often invited to work as a clinician, guest conductor, and lecturer.
This lively fiddle-style tune with a fun melody and bright harmonies will surely please any crowd. Advanced violin players can try the optional octave extension included in the piece. As the toe-tapping tune develops, the melody is traded around the ensemble, making it memorable and fun!
Keith Sharp is a renowned string educator who completed his Bachelor of Music degree in 1984. He has been teaching in Brisbane since then and holds a postgraduate diploma in education. Keith is also a composer and produces award-winning string programs and ensembles. Additionally, he serves as a clinician, guest conductor, and lecturer.
