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PENTATONIC OVERTURE
Grade 1 ( 2 min )
# 200-1-53
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$40
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This engaging overture for string orchestra is built on a D-pentatonic scale with the 2nd violin and viola being the same part. The bass line is provided by the cello and bass in octaves. This scoring allows a very clean, clear texture and good balance of parts. The pentatonic scale gives the piece and oriental flavor, and the use of a limited number of notes allows ease of reading and the opportunity to concentrate exact intonation.
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CHANSON FRANCAISE
Grade 1 ( 2 min )
# 200-1-82
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$40
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A familiar French folk song is the basis of this work for string orchestra. Cast in ¾ time the graceful and flowing melodic line appears in all sections of the orchestra, while a variety of textures seeks to embrace the simplicity and elegance of the tune.
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MARCH GRANDIOSO
Grade 1
# 200-1-23
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$30
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A solid, very playable concert opener, this piece has a strong harmonic background and very accessible rhythmic material. Canon-like entries provide textural variety and independence of line so that all parts contain lead material and make a significant contribution to the performance. (2'00")
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ODE TO JOY
Grade 1 ( 4.5 min )
# 200-1-14
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$35
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The well-known and very lyrical theme from the 4th movement of the Beethoven Ninth Symphony is cast in an adaptation that draws a stirring sound from the string orchestra. All parts have significant lead material, and the recognizable hymn will allow the audience to connect with the performance. An excellent contest piece for a young orchestra. (4'20")
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ORIENTAL LEGEND
Grade 1
# 200-1-10
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$40
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This programmatic string work depicts the daring bravery of Japanese Samurai warriors of long ago. The piece has contrasting sections to show the range and color of the string orchestra. Material is derived from the pentatonic scale to give it that Far Eastern flavor, and the players exhibit the rhythmic vitality needed to portray these knights of centuries past. (2'30")
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YES! I CAN - CAN
Grade 1 ( 3'10 min )
# 200-1-64
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$40
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A solid opener or an exciting encore piece, this adaptation of Jacques Offenbach's famous Can-Can from Gaiete Parisienne is more like grade 1.5, but sounds like grade 3.0 because of the careful scoring and attention to idiomatic string writing. The piece has plenty of interesting material in all parts, and because of the familiarity of the tunes it will be very well received by audiences.
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FIRST CONCERT FOLIO
Grade 1
# 200-1-9
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$50
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A collection of six very playable pieces for string orchestra that could comprise a complete concert. Careful doubling and linear writing will allow these pieces to be played by string groups at the beginning level, with or without piano. The six pieces are:
1. ENTRY OF THE NOBLES 2. VALSE SENTIMENTALE 3. POLKA PIZZICATO 4. ODE TO JOY (Beethoven) 5. HYMN OF ANGELS 6. DANZA ALLA RUSTICANA (1'45")
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THE SAMURAI
Grade 1 ( 3 min )
# 200-1-13
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$35
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A pentatonic tone poem with a distinct oriental flavor that is designed to lie well for young string players. The outer sections are vigorous in nature and contrast with the more lyrical and linear portion. The oriental influence will appeal to both players and audience alike. (2'50")
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GAUDEAMUS POMPA
Grade 1 ( 3 min )
# 200-1-12
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$40
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A very powerful work in the style of a commencement or ceremonial march. Careful attention is paid to comfort of playing and straight-forward rhythms that allow for a strong sound. The contrasting middle section is cantabile in nature, and its linear style gives all players lead material. (3'00")
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MINIATURE SUITE FOR STRINGS
Grade 1 ( 6.5 min )
# 200-1-50
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$40
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Four contrasting movements for string orchestra that may be played as a whole or in various combinations. The first movement, Intrada, is a broad, very stately and dignified opening to the suite with straight-forward harmonies and strong melodic lines. The second movement, Canto, is a warm, expressive statement with independent lines of a vocal nature. The
Intermezzo is in the form of a pizzicato scherzo that leads to the very vigorous, energetic, and exciting Danza Barbaro. N.B.: While carefully written for a grade 1 orchestra with violin 2 and viola doubled, there is enough substance and sophistication in this piece to appeal to grade 3 groups wither very few rehearsals.
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MAJESTIC OVERTURE
Grade 2 ( 3.5 min )
# 200-2-15
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$45
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A very dramatic and stirring overture for strings with strong, straight-forward rhythms and a variety of textures that allow each player to make a significant contribution. The careful doubling and solid bass line give the orchestra a full sound that would make this an ideal concert opener or contest piece. The musical impact is much greater than Grade 2.0 would indicate. (3' 20")
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CHRISTMAS TRIOLET
Grade 2 ( 5 min )
# 200-2-16
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$45
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This holiday suite is made up of GOOD KING WENCESLAS, WHAT CHILD IS THIS, and O COME, ALL YE FAITHFUL. The three carols produce an exciting grouping that the audience will recognize and enjoy. The playability and rhythmic vitality capture the holiday spirit and would make a fine closing selection. (4'40")
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SCARBOROUGH FAIR
Grade 2 ( 3'45 min )
# 200-2-32
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$35
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The traditional English ballad "Scarborough Fair" is scored in a rich and lush setting for string orchestra. The melodic nature of all the parts is derived from the original melody. A fine change of pace selection, this very playable adaptation will require expressive playing and allow ample opportunity for the conductor's personal interpretation. (3'45")
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HUNGARIAN DANCES
Grade 2 ( 3 min )
# 200-2-49
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$40
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A paraphrase of Johannes Brahms "Hungarian Dance", this string orchestra work captures all of the nationalistic fervor and energy of the Gypsy idiom. There is lead material in all parts, and the playability of the piece makes it sound much more difficult than it actually is. The contrast between the slow cantabile sections and the vigorous nature of the quick dances provide both contrast and interest.
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OVERTURE HONORE
Grade 2
# 200-2-24
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$40
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Broad melodic lines and a strong harmonic background make this overture both playable and easy to listen to for the audience. The use of a great deal of linear texture gives melodic interest to all parts and a full sound to the orchestra. This work could easily be the centerpiece of a program because of its length and technical display within this grade level. (6'45")
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PATRIOTIC SONGS
Grade 2 ( 4.5 min )
# 200-2-52
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$45
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This collection consists of "America", "America the Beautiful", "The Star-Spangled Banner", and "Eternal Father, Strong to Save". The four pieces are fully scored with particular attention paid to the melodic construction of each line. Both the harmonies and bass line are not those generally heard in order to give each arrangement fresh appeal. String orchestras will find these playable arrangements useful for a variety of occasions.
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POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE
Grade 2 ( 4 min )
# 200-2-54
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$40
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Edward Elgar s well known and stately processional march can be played as a concert piece or used in a ceremonial manner since there are several stopping points indicated in the score. This arrangement strives to maintain the fullness and majesty of the original, with careful attention paid to the playability of all parts.
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REUBEN AND RACHEL
Grade 2 ( 4 min )
# 200-2-55
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$45
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The familiar and simple folk song "Reuben and Rachel" provides the basic material for this set of variations for string orchestra. While the tune is straightforward, this symphonic setting employs sophisticated cuntrapuntal lines so that all parts will play lead material. This energetic setting, with its contrasting contabile middle section, can function as a strong opener or a rousing encore selection.
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ROSIN SMOKE
Grade 2 ( 5 min )
# 200-2-56
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$40
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As the title implies, this piece will require great energy and a vigorous bowing style-some rosin dust may indeed be seen rising from the orchestra. All lines are very rhythmic and melodic and
are written to lay comfortably in all parts. This piece is great fun to play and a sure crowd pleaser. It will make a fine opener, a closer, or as a rousing encore piece.
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CARIBBEAN CAPERS
Grade 2 ( 3.5 min )
# 200-2-19
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$45
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This work for string orchestra and percussion captures the calypso sound and spirit. The percussion is very straight-forward, and the opportunity for some improvisation is present. The string parts are written so that the style is easily grasped. It is fun to play and to hear. (3'30")
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SHOWCASE THE STRINGS
Grade 2 ( 7.5 min )
# 200-2-58
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$45
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This four-movement suite allows each section to be featured; 1-Violin Duello, 2-Viola DAmore, 3-Cello a Danza, 4-Basso Profundo. The programmatic titles provide both players and audience a good opportunity to understand the content of each movement, while the players showcase their idiomatic parts-an effective way to get each section to understand their importance to the orchestra.
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GOD OF OUR FATHERS
Grade 2 ( 3'45 min )
# 200-2-66
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$40
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This well-known and stirring anthem is scored for string orchestra. With lead material in all parts, the cantabile and linear nature of each line lends a full, warm sound to the ensemble. The piece would be appropriate as either an opener or a closer to the concert program.
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LA PRIMAVERA
Grade 2 ( 3 min )
# 200-2-18
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$50
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The string orchestra always comes alive with the music of Vivaldi. This very accessible adaptation of SPRING from THE FOUR SEASONS will allow your players to display their skills with the confidence of mature musicians. Most of the important material of this arrangement is present, and the power and vitality will allow for a memorable performance. (3'20")
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REGAL COURT PROCESSION
Grade 2 ( 4 min )
# 200-2-17
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$45
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The pomp and pageantry of a ceremonial march of the royals is depicted in this energetic work for string orchestra. Melodic material is vigorous and song-like to heighten contrast within the piece. Some solid eighth-note passage work propels the piece to a stirring conclusion. The work is appropriate as an opener or closer and certainly as a contest selection. (4'15")
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CONTINENTAL CHRISTMAS SUITE
Grade 2 ( 8 min )
# 200-2-20
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$50
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Capturing the joy and reverence of the holiday season, this suite of carols is made up of: AS WITH GLADNESS, MEN OF OLD; THE FIRST NOEL; GOD REST YE MERRY, GENTLEMEN; O COME, O COME, EMMANUEL; ANGELS WE HAVE HEARD ON HIGH. A variety of textures, dynamics and moods characterizes this very playable and exciting Christmas offering. The familiar carols will provide excellent musical satisfaction for the players and audience alike. (7'45")
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FESTIVE SONGS OF CHRISTMAS
Grade 3 ( 6 min )
# 200-3-21
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$50
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More advanced string players will be able to bring off the verve and sensitivity of this suite of carols. The work consists of: ANGELS WE HAVE HEARD ON HIGH; GOD REST YE MERRY, GENTLEMEN; O COME, O COME, EMMANUEL; ANGELS FROM THE REALMS OF GLORY. These carols receive a complete symphonic treatment that draws a full and joyous sound from the ensemble. It would make an excellent finale to any holiday program. (5'45")
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PERPETUUM MOBILE
Grade 3 ( 4 min )
# 200-3-22
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$40
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A quick-moving piece that drives relentlessly from start to finish. The double bowings are easy to play and provide a strong element of “flash” on the part of the orchestra. As in most pieces of this type, the energy and vitality are of a high level; and the interesting contrapuntal section in the middle provides needed contrast. A fine show piece that sounds much more difficult than it is. (4'15")
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MEDITATION
Grade 3
# 200-3-25
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$40
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MEDITATION is a supremely Romantic work that is a paraphrase on a duo by C. Dancla. With the warm, 19th c. harmonic tensions derived from the chromatic harmonies of that period, this piece delivers the high emotional expression characteristic of Romantic orchestral writing. The very slow tempo will bring out the best of expression from both the conductor and players and will make an excellent contrast piece on any program. (3'45")
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MEDIEVAL SKETCHES
Grade 3
# 200-3-26
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$40
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A chant melody in Dorian mode provides the basis for this work in three parts: Plainsong, Aria and Gigue. The modal melody is backed up by harmonies derived from the Dorian mode, and the piece is constructed with a careful eye toward playability to make it sound more difficult than it is. The 6/8 Gigue provides a very energetic and exciting finale to the three movements. (6'00")
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TANGO EN CONCIERTO
Grade 3
# 200-3-29
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$45
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The Latin tango dance form is used in a symphonic setting. The unique flavor of the dance is enhanced by the addition of colorful Latin percussion and an aggressive string style. Textural variety, sweeping melodic lines and biting rhythmic figures make this a unique contribution to the string orchestra literature. (5'15")
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DUO CONCERTANTE
Grade 3 ( 8 min )
# 200-3-83
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$40
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Commissioned by the Wilson Junior High School (El Centro, CA) music department, this double concerto has the string orchestra at Grade 3 and the two solo parts at Grade 5. Written to showcase the musical strengths of the two solo instruments, the piece makes use of neo-tonal harmonies. The slow introduction leads to the main body of the piece, which contains a lyrical middle section, followed by a recapitulation and a double cadenza.
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FANTASIA - BE THOU MY VISION
Grade 3 ( 5 min )
# 200-3-48
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$45
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Cast in two main sections and based on the hymn tune "Be Thou My Vision", sometimes known as the Irish melody "Slane", this setting for string orchestra opens with a slow exposition of the hymn tune, with rich and warm Romantic harmonies. The second section is a quick-tempo, very energetic presentation of portions of the original melody that moves through a series of symphonic variants with lead material in all parts.
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PACHELBEL CANON
Grade 3 ( 4 min )
# 200-3-51
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$45
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The much-loved and widely recognized Canon in D by Pachelbel is set for string orchestra with lead material in all parts. The melodic nature of each line contributes to a full, rich overall sound. The contrapuntal texture is readily apparent and allows each player to make a significant contribution. A strong contest piece that will allow for the display of mature musicianship.
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SARASPONDA
Grade 3 ( 7 min )
# 200-3-57
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$55
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The Dutch spinning song Sarasponda provides the material for this fantasia for string orchestra. The direct simplicity of the melody is memorable, and therefore ideal for symphonic development in this three-part work. The very warm and melodic middle portion provides strong contrast with the vigorous outer sections. Employing a great deal of textural variety, the piece gives lead material, written in an idiomatic fashion, to all parts. Players and audience will respond to this energetic work.
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GAIETE PARISIENNE
Grade 3 ( 5'25 min )
# 200-3-67
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$45
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A fiery and energetic piece for string orchestra based on melodies from Jacques Offenbach's Gaiete Parisienne. Not just an arrangement of the tunes, but a symphonic adaptation that showcases the agility and warmth of strings. The cantabile middle section contrasts nicely with the excitement of the opening and closing portions. The tunes are familiar to all, and the piece will make an excellent closer or encore selection.
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ARIRANG
Grade 3 ( 6 min )
# 200-3-78
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$40
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This well-known and very haunting Korean folk song has been set for string orchestra. Primarily based on both the major and minor pentatonic scales, the melodies and harmonies are strongly influenced by traditional Western usage. While the linear nature of all parts is of prime importance, traditional symphonic development is the main consideration in the structure of the piece. Careful idiomatic writing makes the piece sound more difficult than it is and will be very rewarding to players and audience alike.
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CELTIC CHRISTMAS
Grade 3 ( 6 min )
# 200-3-46
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$45
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This holiday setting is made up of three Irish carols ("Once in Royal David s City", "Wexford Carol", and "Christmas Is Coming"). Each has a contrasting musical message. The first is a broad, majestic setting, while "Wexford Carol" is warm and haunting. The piece closes with the rousing "Christmas Is Coming". All are developed in a symphonic manner, with many
contrapuntal sections that give each part of the orchestra the opportunity to play lead material. The rhythmic energy and strong melodies will make this an excellent addition to any holiday program.
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SUITE FRANCAIS
Grade 4 ( 8 min )
# 200-4-23
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$55
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A powerful and profound setting of three quintessential French folk songs: 16TH c. CHANT JOYEUX, CHANSON POPULAIRE, VEUX-TU M’EPOUSER. The simple beauty of the three contrasting tunes is treated symphonically to make full use of the string idiom. With the exploration of the full ranges of all sections and a variety of textural devices, this piece is a tour-de-force for the players and will provide a memorable musical experience for your audience. (8'15")
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MINUET A LA MOZART
Grade 4
# 200-4-27
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$45
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Stamitz composed this minuet in the style of Mozart. The verve and impact of a typical Mozart-like minuet requires rhythmic accuracy and crisp technique that will display the musicianship of the ensemble in order to produce the sparkle and clarity associated with the Classic period. (4'45")
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AMERICAN HOEDOWN
Grade 4 ( 5 min )
# 200-4-45
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$45
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A fiery showpiece for string orchestra, this work receives its impetus and style characteristics from American fiddle playing. However, it does become more symphonic as the piece develops textural variety and contemporary harmonic influences. This manipulation of musical elements brings the piece from the barn dance to the concert stage.
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FANTASIA ON THE ALLELUIA HYMN
Grade 4 ( 5 min )
# 200-4-47
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$50
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A showcase piece for string orchestra, this work uses the fantasia format to fully explore the symphonic possibilities of the Alleluia Hymn. The subtle changes of time signature and the powerful melodic allow a wide range of developmental techniques. The power and grandeur of this magnificent hymn make this an exciting addition to any program or contest offering.
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SINFONIA A TRE
Grade 4 ( 8 min )
# 200-4-30
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$50
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A brilliant work that is technically challenging, yet playable, this piece is a tour de force. Cast in three sections, the work shows the string orchestra as both a source of warm, melodic style and vigorous rhythmic performance. The contrapuntal textures and variety of tonal colors are integral parts of this powerful work in the neo-Romantic style. (8'10")
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WINTER IS PAST
Grade 5 ( 5'10 min )
# 200-5-65
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$50
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Perhaps no change of seasons has been of more interest and inspiration to writers, poets, painters and musicians than the ending of the bleak, cold winter and the beginning of the warm, hopeful spring. Nature's transition is the basis for this symphonic poem for string orchestra. The haunting melodic lines and the warm and sometimes contemporary harmonies contribute to the poignant and expressive nature of the season change.
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