Price arr. Perna, The Old Boatman for String Orchestra Grade 3 (SMC)

This lyrical work is a shining presentation of Price's signature style. The opening G major theme modulates to A major, featuring brief solos for violin and cello. Although short, the piece requires mature musicality, shifting skills, and vibrato from your ensemble, with moments of delicate dynamics and rubato. Florence Beatrice Price (1887-1953) was a composer, organist and music teacher, and noted as the first African American woman to be recognised as a symphonic composer. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, Florence Price's style blends European traditions with elements of the African American spirituals and blues-inspired melodies. (4:00)