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.
This piece involves repeated upper-half staccato with crescendo and decrescendo, along with an exciting countermelody. The parts are evenly balanced, and all players get the chance to play the tune at some point. Upper violinists may choose to play in the third position as recommended. You can enjoy exploring the possibilities with the old saying, "It's worse than a curse!"
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.
Keith Sharp's contemporary piece in D major is enjoyable to play and suitable for beginners. It features echo effects and melodious accompanying lines and is graded as a B for primary school and a C for high school.
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.
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.
Celtic Lullaby is a 2-minute musical piece by Keith Sharp for a string orchestra in D major. The folio cover on the publisher's website has string parts, a conductor's score, and piano accompaniment. Natalie Sharp designed, edited and engraved the Music.
Keith Sharp, a string educator and composer from Brisbane, Australia, has won awards for his string programs, ensembles and compositions. He is also a popular clinician, conductor and lecturer.
This is a 2-minute string orchestra piece in E minor, graded at levels 2-3. It is a fantasia on the Irish reel 'Drowsy Maggie' and can be played for violins and piano. It includes two challenging descant lines, piano accompaniment, tambourine, and a simple cello line. The conductor's score has arranger info.
Keith Sharp is a notable string educator from Brisbane, Australia. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree and a postgraduate diploma in education. Keith is an award-winning composer whose works are famous in Australia and have gained recognition internationally. He is also an active clinician, guest conductor, and 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.
