SKU: AP.45866S
UPC: 038081524450. English.
As the title suggests, this nod to the fleet-footed dance of the 1800s, The Polka Dot Polka, is all about dots---dots over, under, and after notes! Written as an etude to enhance your young orchestra's understanding of dotted quarter note rhythms and staccato bow strokes, this selection---in true Richard Meyer style---is sure to challenge all of your students and get your audience dancing in the aisles! For extra fun, push the tempo a bit (or even a lot!)---the faster the better! (2:30). This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.35970S
UPC: 038081411767. English.
This piece will remind audiences of other non-traditional seasonal pieces in the style of American standard songs with their evocations of sleigh rides, apple cider, and cozy hearths. The melodic style and contemporary harmonies suggest a time when gatherings of friends and families are remembered with pleasure and a particular kind of American nostalgia for days gone by.
SKU: AP.48080
UPC: 038081553887. English.
Inspired by the sound of elementary Orff ensembles, Gamelan Groove, by Doug Spata, consists of easy two-measure phrases with layered pizzicato throughout creating fun and funky textures. Using only the notes of the D and A strings (basses go up to open G), this piece will give beginners a great introduction to ensemble playing and note reading. (1:52) This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.45868
UPC: 038081523699. English.
In the tradition of great British wind band marches like British Eighth and Colonel Bogey, this original is intended for beginning orchestra. Students in their first year will find this piece absolutely playable, using only open strings, notes within a one-octave D scale, and simple bowing patterns. Optional beginning percussion and piano parts ensure that British March by Andrew H. Dabczynski will make a perfect opening or closing piece on any concert program. (2:15).
SKU: AP.49469S
ISBN 9781470650131. UPC: 038081570914. English.
Jim Palmer's arrangement of Music for the Royal Fireworks is an exciting two-movement work that is perfect for your young string orchestra. The movements work together or are effective played on their own. Terraced dynamics and authentic articulations will help your students gain an understanding of music from the Baroque era. A perfect opener or closer to any concert. (3:15).
SKU: AP.47469S
UPC: 038081544793. English. American Folk Song.
Students will really enjoy playing and singing this old-timey tune that has roots in early New Orleans-style jazz. In 1st position throughout, this piece features rhythmic syncopation. The upbeat piece with great lyrics is a complete crowd pleaser.
SKU: AP.43823S
UPC: 038081506890. English.
Absolutely a must-have for festival or contest, this symphonic transcription will showcase your group at their best! Accurately reflecting the original string parts while the other parts are seamlessly voiced in the strings, this will become a favorite. (2:40).
SKU: AP.38498S
UPC: 038081436869. English.
Fashioned in the style of a Debussy piano prelude, this delicate piece is a refreshing break from the ordinary. Your students will love the Impressionistic colors and harmonies of this selection, and its expressive nature will help them develop a flowing, legato style. Includes brief solo passages for violin and a part for bells, cymbals, and triangle. This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.45881S
UPC: 038081523866. English.
Adapted from Vivaldi's Lute Concerto in D Major, this arrangement from Brenden McBrien for two solo violins and orchestra creates an opportunity to feature your top violinists in the opening movement of this classic work. Your musicians and audience will be charmed by this Italian masterpiece which includes passages for solo cello and optional keyboard accompaniment to lend it that authentic flavor. (3:40).
SKU: AP.40469S
UPC: 038081454252. English.
This Haydn quartet movement is a powerful example of the Storm and Stress style (Sturm und Drang) favored by the composer in many of his famous symphonies. Set in the dark key of D minor, rhythmic and harmonic agitation propel the music forward as Haydn develops its four-note theme through a variety of methods. Both musicians and audience will be captivated by this chamber music masterpiece set for string orchestra with an added bass part to strengthen its harmonic movement, making this the perfect concert or contest closer for your orchestra. This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.44841S
UPC: 038081518411. English.
Perfect for your fall concert, here is a piece that has spooky lyrics to teach the rhythms in the easy melodic line. Upper string parts are doubled, and the cello part doubles the bass line. Everyone gets to do glissando in this original by Susan Day. The piano part is integral to the piece. Feature some of your orchestra members singing the lyrics together with the orchestra, or invite members of the choir to join with the orchestra! Great fun for all, especially at Halloween, this one will stick in their heads. Find out who is this ghost in the living room! (2:35).
SKU: AP.44845S
UPC: 038081518671. English.
In 3/4, this moving piece provides a great opportunity for the use of slow bow strokes and cross-curricular study. The victory over the British forces at Yorktown, Virginia by the American Continental Army in 1781 signaled the end of the Revolutionary War. This original work by Todd Parrish remembers the heroic efforts of General Washington and the brave soldiers he commanded to forge a new nation founded on freedom. (2:30).
SKU: AP.49931S
ISBN 9781470657857. UPC: 038081575711. English.
Beginners will enjoy the dashing style of Set a Course by Doug Spata while exploring new playing techniques! Familiar notes and rhythms keep the music approachable, and an optional piano part adds additional support. This is a thrilling concert selection that's also a great way to show off a variety of new skills. (2:00).
SKU: AP.49055
ISBN 9781470645687. UPC: 038081564166. English.
It's Mozart with a Latin twist! Viva Amadeus!, arranged by Richard Meyer, is a charming reworking of Eine Kleine Nachtmusik. It is sure to make your audience smile while providing your students with opportunities to work on syncopation and south of the border dance rhythms. Fun for everyone, as all the sections take turns stepping into the melodic spotlight. Latin percussion parts add to the cha-cha feel of this irresistible celebration. Olé! (3:15).
SKU: AP.46721S
UPC: 038081533568. English.
The genius of Stravinsky is available to young string players in this arrangement of Petrushka. Here is an arrangement by Andrew H. Dabczynski of excerpts from the masterpiece ballet that will introduce the orchestra to 20th-century musical composition---with mixed meters and strident harmonies---in a challenging but always playable and logical context. The powerful sound of this Stravinsky classic is guaranteed to engross students and wow listeners in concerts and festivals.
SKU: AP.33712S
UPC: 038081394527. English.
As the title suggests, this fun grade 1.5 piece features ever-changing time signatures that will intrigue and challenge the young string orchestra. There are four mood shifts in the piece, suggested by a student narrator who stands up and declares simply Once upon a time, Suddenly, Luckily, and Happily ever after. But what, exactly, is the story? That's up to your students and your audience to decide! This charming piece is simple rhythmically and note-wise, but a great way to get your orchestra counting. Sure to spark everyone's imagination! This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.46719S
UPC: 038081533544. English.
This wonderful string orchestra arrangement of Choral and Allegro maestoso from Felix Mendelssohn's great masterwork, Symphony No. 5, is arranged by Jim Palmer. The string parts are similar to the original score and will create a beautiful symphonic sound. A great festival choice that would be a dynamic closer for any concert!
SKU: AP.49061
ISBN 9781470645809. UPC: 038081565200. English.
Hanerot Halalu, arranged by Paul Riggio, is a Hanukkah selection for a younger string orchestra. The rich harmonies will make every orchestra sound full and mature. Each section is given a chance to shine as it employs independence of parts in both pitch and rhythm. Infinitely adaptable to ensembles of almost any size, directors will love programming this work as it is a tuneful and touching representation of the holiday season. Set in a traditional folk-music style, this beautiful arrangement will be a wonderful selection for a well-rounded holiday performance. (2:30).
SKU: AP.38481S
UPC: 038081431703. English.
This piece was inspired by a visit to London's Buckingham Palace, with its colorful tradition of the changing of the guards. Set in the key of D Major, the chordal harmonies and dotted quarter rhythms bring a picture of royalty to mind. Other main teaching points are lift signs, a round section, and the use of high 3rd fingers to attain great in-tune chords. Interesting parts for all sections with many learning opportunities---a perfect choice! This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.41264S
UPC: 038081480787. English.
This trio shines as transcribed for string orchestra and makes possible the inclusion of a viola part, both as an equal player in the primary melodic material and in fulfilling harmonic realizations. All parts are playable in first position with the exception of fourth position required occasionally for cellos. Opportunities abound for students to polish Baroque bowing techniques. (4:30) This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.48099S
ISBN 9781470655112. UPC: 038081554426. English.
Written in the key of D minor, Minor Altercations by Anthony Granata is an intense, contemporary piece opening with an accented, off-beat rhythmic motif that constantly returns as new material is gradually built upon it. Your orchestra will sound like they're arguing, fighting, or possibly having a small (minor) altercation. Featuring counterpoint, rhythmic independence, a contrasting middle section, and a powerful coda, this exciting piece will engage and challenge your orchestra. (3:00) This title available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.49469
ISBN 9781470650124. UPC: 038081570907. English.
Jim Palmer's arrangement of Music for the Royal Fireworks is an exciting two-movement work that is perfect for your young string orchestra. The movements work together or are effective played on their own. Terraced dynamics and authentic articulations will help your students gain an understanding of music from the Baroque era. A perfect opener or closer to any concert. (3:15) This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.38505
UPC: 038081439747. English.
A beautiful exploration of programmatic music and tonality/modality in four movements! Although all four snapshots of Wisconsin appear to be in the key of G (one sharp), closer examination finds four contrasting tonal centers and modes, allowing students to experience varying keys/modes and their inherent expressive tendencies, while using similar pitches and finger patterns.
SKU: AP.43829S
UPC: 038081496979. English.
Picture the matador as he waves his red cape and the crowd cheers him on! Distinguished by its Spanish influenced melodies and harmonies, this piece in 4/4 is written in D minor and E minor. Great to develop expressive playing! (3:30).
SKU: AP.31613S
UPC: 038081354750. English.
Are you looking for a big, bombastic opener or closer for your next symphony orchestra concert? Do you need a contrasting piece to a delicate Debussy impression and want to stay French? Are you too pooped to Pomp? This composition, in a bold march style with a short fugal exposition in the middle, will work for you. Your students will enjoy the opportunity for their sections to shine and your audience will remember the energetic build to the final climactic chords.
SKU: AP.47468S
UPC: 038081544557. English.
The rondo form of this work gives students repetition, along with detours to keep their interest. The piece uses only quarter notes and half notes with both stepwise motion and larger intervals in D major. The piano part is recommended, adding to the harmonic interest of the piece.
SKU: AP.49465
ISBN 9781470650209. UPC: 038081570983. English.
Beginning string students will have a diabolically good time with this all-pizzicato selection. Gleefully sinister melodies pass between all sections and simple quarter and half note accompaniment parts help keep everyone together. The optional piano accompaniment sets the pace with even 8th notes, helping young players subdivide their rhythms. Part independence and note range are minimized while doubling and repetition are emphasized, making this an easy piece for kids to master. Midnight Mischief by Doug Spata is a fun piece that kids will love to play while supporting essential ensemble playing and listening skills. (2:05) This title is available in MakeMusic Cloud.
SKU: AP.40467S
UPC: 038081454214. English. Traditional Xinjiang Folk Song of China.
Very beautiful, yet also thrilling to play, this piece, celebrating young love, is familiar to most Chinese people. It uses slides, syncopation, rich harmonies, and unusual intervals to reflect the exotic musical melting pot that has influenced this folk music.
SKU: AP.47479
UPC: 038081544861. English.
This lighthearted, carefree work is easy to remember upon hearing. It has a snappy rhythm that makes you want to dance to its lively tune. Minstrels were musicians who traveled throughout the countryside providing entertainment to any and all. Their repertoire included songs, dances, jokes, and storytelling. One could find them all over Europe and America from the Middle Ages up until the 20th century. As traveling musicians, they relied on catch tunes that could easily be learned and communicated to their audiences. They were in the business of uplifting people's spirits through fun and laughter.
SKU: AP.45889S
UPC: 038081529684. English. Traditional.
A Child for Three Kings, a beautiful arrangement by Jim Palmer, combines Greensleeves and We Three Kings to create a Christmas concert selection that will be loved by students and audiences alike. All string parts are interesting and include both melodic and accompaniment figures. The rich harmonies and beautiful melodies will be a great addition to any holiday performance. (3:50).