Sharp, The Wild Colonial Boy (Grade 2.5) For String Orchestra
$125.00
"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.
The Wild Colonial Boy (Grade 2.5) for string orchestra
The ballad "The Wild Colonial Boy" first appeared in print in 1881 and tells the story of Jack Doolan, an Irish-Australian bushranger who was captured and killed by troopers. The ballad has captivated the imaginations of string students and audiences alike. Banjo Paterson later added two more verses to the ballad.
This charming song arrangement is set in the key of D major. It is styled after the old-time Waltz and features interesting lines for all players. The song's nostalgic character is portrayed through lyrical partwriting, while pizzicato and tremolo effects add variety to the texture.
Adding "The Wild Colonial Boy" to your next concert line-up is a great way to introduce an Australian classic to your audience.
This musical score offers a charming escape to old-time dancing during World War I, with lovely Mexican touches. Shared themes between sections, informed educational design and a manageable length make it perfect for ensembles. Duration: 2:50 in D major.
Keith has been teaching at Brisbane’s state schools since 1985. He composes imaginative pieces for string students, some of which have been published by The FJH Music Company and Alfreds. Keith has received multiple awards and recognition for his contributions to music education. He appears as a guest clinician, composer, teacher, and conductor at schools, music camps, and workshops. Additionally, Keith co-authors the beginner series Encore On Strings - Music Maestros.
Australian composer and violinist Keith Sharp has created a flexible Celtic-sounding melody divided into three parts - a melody, harmony, and bass line. Each instrument has a melody part and an easier harmony part to accommodate players of different skill levels.
Keith Sharp is a Brisbane-based string educator and composer with a Bachelor of Music degree and a post-graduate diploma in education. He has produced award-winning string programs and ensembles, and his works are popular in Australia and abroad. Keith is also active as a clinician, guest conductor, and lecturer.
“Stringosaurus” is a fun and dynamic musical piece in G major, perfect for young musicians. It includes five string parts, each with its unique character. The cello part is noteworthy as it adds excitement to the composition with a chromatic movement. An optional piano accompaniment is also available. Overall, it encourages creativity and exploration in young musicians.
Keith Sharp is a renowned music educator in Brisbane, teaching at Brisbane State High School since 1985. He’s a composer, conductor, and teacher who’s received numerous awards for his contributions to music education. Keith co-authors the beginner string method, Encore on Strings - Music Maestros.
"Return to Skye" is a beautiful Celtic-style folk fiddle tune for string orchestras at Grade 3-3.5 level. The piece features varying meters that challenge students, but all parts can be played in the first position, except for the first violins, which may need to use second and third positions occasionally. All sections will have a chance to play different melodies using a range of bowing styles. Keith Sharp is a string educator in Brisbane, Australia, with a Bachelor of Music degree and a post-graduate diploma in education. He produces award-winning compositions that are popular worldwide and is involved in various roles as a clinician, guest conductor, and lecturer.
Angharad’s Feast," composed to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Brisbane’s Western Suburbs String Orchestra and honor founder Andrea Messenger, premiered in November 2019. The piece represents a family gathering, with each string section symbolizing different family members: first violins as energetic children, second violins as guiding parents, violas as aunties and uncles, and double basses and cellos as wise grandparents. With a warm and charming folk-style theme, the composition beautifully encapsulates the spirit of family, music, and life.
Katie O'Hara LaBrie, Snow Day! for String Orchestra (Alfred Music)
Waking up on a cold winter day. Sledding. Hot chocolate. It's a snow day! Written by Katie O'Hara LaBrie, Snow Day! is craftily designed only using the notes of a D major scale. This highly accessible piece, with its bright melodies and jingle bell accompaniment will delight students and audiences.
Polly, a sick cockatoo, feels lonely as her friends avoid her. This Eastern European-inspired composition is ideal for Grade 1.5 students and has a melancholic melody with a haunting piano accompaniment that lasts 2 minutes and 6 seconds.
Keith Sharp is a renowned music teacher and co-author of the beginner series Encore On Strings - Music Maestros. He has over 35 years of experience teaching string music, a Bachelor of Music Degree, and a Graduate Diploma in Further Education. Keith has received several awards for his contributions to music education and regularly appears at schools, music camps, and workshops.
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.
