Mouse Patrol for String Orchestra (Level 1.5) by Keith Sharp
This music piece is designed to help young string students develop their skills. It has a fun title and follows a group of mice trying to sneak into a well-stocked kitchen while avoiding a cat. The score can be performed as a unison melody with piano or in a flexible 3-part setting. It incorporates pedagogical, technical concepts such as left-hand pizzicato, first partial harmonics, and balanced bowing patterns in simple repetitive rhythmic motifs. The parts are engaging and encourage efficient detaché stroke. The piano accompaniment is integral to the texture of the performance. The piece is approximately 1 minute and 36 seconds long, in the key of D major, and is suitable for Grade 1.5 students.
Keith Sharp has been a string educator in The Gap regional state schools of Brisbane, Australia, since 1985. In 2012, he began teaching at Brisbane State High School, focusing on group tuition and ensemble. Keith has a passion for writing creative and engaging pieces for string students, many of which are now performed by young players across the globe. The FJH Music Company and Alfreds in the US have published some of his works. These educational ensemble pieces have consistently been chosen as “Editor’s Choice” in the J.W. Pepper Orchestral Music Catalog.
Keith has a Bachelor of Music Degree and a Graduate Diploma in Further Education. He is a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow. In 2006, he received a Ryan Recognition Award. Additionally, in 2013, he received the “Can Do” Educator of the Year award for contributing to the region’s music education. Keith has served as a past President and committee member of AUSTA Queensland, and in 2012, he was recognized with a State Award by AUSTA. He often serves as a guest clinician/composer, teacher, and conductor at schools, music camps, and workshops. Furthermore, Keith co-authors the renowned beginner series Encore On Strings - Music Maestros.
