

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, 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.
"Far From Home" is a beautiful 1.45-minute piece by Keith Sharp for string orchestra. It is suitable for Grade 2 players and has a wistful melody that explores rich G-string sounds. The harmony/descant and bass parts are optional, and there's an optional vocal line too. This flexible piece is an excellent addition to your library.
Keith Sharp is an award-winning string educator and composer in Brisbane, Australia. He received his Bachelor of Music degree in 1984 and a postgraduate diploma in education in 1995. Keith is also involved in the music education community as a clinician, guest conductor, and lecturer.
In 1700, the Last Dodo danced The Last Waltz on Mauritius Island. Valse Triste is a B minor waltz tribute to the extinct bird. It’s a tuneful and balanced piece with a soulful cello, a lyrical first violin, and various melodies, harmonies, and rhythms for inner players. It’s an excellent practice for waltz strokes and rhythms.
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.
Night Folk is a 3-sketch musical piece inspired by Enid Blyton’s playful storytelling. It features mischievous creatures making fun of marching gnomes, riding Queen Caterpillar, and dancing in an enchanted ring. The composition has carefully designed educational elements for musical ensembles, a manageable length of 2 min 52 sec, and is in the key of A Aeolian mode.
Keith Sharp is a music educator from Brisbane, Australia, with over 35 years of experience. He currently teaches at Brisbane State High School, focusing on ensemble and group tuition. Keith’s ensemble pieces have won awards, and he’s a co-author of Encore on Strings. He regularly appears as a guest clinician, composer, teacher, and conductor.
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.
Haydn’s Lost Chorale is a revised version of The Abbey, inspired by Haydn’s St. Anthony’s Chorale. It’s scored for string orchestra with optional piano, including violin 3 (treble viola) and violin parts. It features a dotted rhythm, quasi-classical textures and singing themes.
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.
Collage Romantique is an impressive piece for high school string orchestra. It features driving rhythms, emotional melodies, and dramatic runs in minor tonality. Sections take turns with accompaniment and leading lines, often teaming up. Students are encouraged to use full bow and vibrato. The themes linger with the audience after the final chord.
Keith Sharp earned his Bachelor of Music degree in 1984. He works as a string educator in Brisbane, Australia, producing award-winning string programs and ensembles and composing music. His works are famous in Australia and have gained recognition in the US, UK, and Germany. Keith is also a clinician, guest conductor, and guest lecturer.