Night Folk for String Orchestra (Level 2-2.5) by Keith Sharp
Night Folk is a musical piece that takes inspiration from the playful storytelling of Enid Blyton. The composition consists of three short sketches set in a forest that feature mischievous creatures. These sketches include making fun of marching gnomes, riding Queen Caterpillar, and delirious dancing within an enchanted ring. Directors of musical ensembles will appreciate the carefully designed educational elements skillfully integrated into the piece. These elements include sharing roles, thoughtful choices of left-hand progression, balanced strokes, and a satisfying yet manageable length. Night Folk is an imaginative and tuneful musical journey that lasts for 2 minutes and 52 seconds and is composed in the key of A Aeolian mode.
Keith Sharp is a string educator in Brisbane, Australia. He has been teaching since 1985 and is currently teaching at Brisbane State High School. His program focuses on ensemble and group tuition, and he is known for creating engaging pieces for students. His educational ensemble pieces have been recognised as Editor’s Choice in the J.W. Pepper Orchestral Music Catalog.
Keith has a bachelor’s degree in music and a graduate diploma in further education. He’s a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow and has received several awards for his contribution to music education. Keith co-authors Encore on Strings - Music Maestros and regularly appears as a guest clinician, composer, teacher, and conductor at schools, music camps, and workshops.