Classical Music for String Orchestra

Dvorak’s 8th Symphony is often referred to as his Pastoral symphony for its optimistic and uplifting themes. With contrasting melancholy minor and lighthearted major folk-like melodies, this

This Grade 2 work is arranged from an elegant theme found in Verdi’s opera, "Falstaff." Enhance your students’ musicality and expression as the lyrical melody is featured in... view details

Give your students the opportunity to learn Romantic-era playing techniques as well perform some of the most beloved classical literature from one of its greatest composers. This very authentic

Written in 1779 after his return from Paris, Mozart’s lively Symphony No. 32 loosely follows the form of an Italian overture. Cleverly arranged here without the slow andante section,... view details

Here is one of Mozart's most famous quartet movements, carefully transcribed for string orchestra. It remains very true to the original in style, nuance, and bowings but is slightly shortened and transposed

Mozart's Symphony No. 17 was composed in 1772 when he was just 16 years old. Originally for oboes, horns and strings, this string orchestra arrangement of the first movement has maintained the

This spirited Allegro comes from the overture to Handel's 1738 opera "Serse" (Xerxes). Transposed to D major, this approachable arrangement provides students the opportunity to explore basic

An authentic arrangement of the gorgeous second movement from Symphony No. 1 by Russian composer Vasily Kalinnikov, this beautiful symphonic movement stands on its own. It is the epitome of the late

Beethoven's captivating melody that begins this Andante is one of the most famous cello/viola melodies ever written. This strings-only edition allows the ensemble to experience even more of

Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks was performed in 1749 for the King of England’s fireworks display in London. This approachable arrangement of Bourree in first position

The harmonic beauty and seamless polyphony of Bach's second Brandenburg Concerto has been retained in this very true string orchestra adaptation of the original. Wind solos are given to principal violin,

This resetting for string orchestra has successfully kept the composer's intent, and to a great extent, the sounds and colors of the original orchestration. While requiring some substantial string forces,

This three-movement suite of Bizet's masterpiece "Carmen" is carefully arranged to work well with your high school string orchestra. Each movement is musically interesting and preserves the passion of the

Taken from one of Handel's celebrated keyboard works, this delightful piece is carefully arranged for strings. While offering ample challenges, it is well suited for teaching a variety of bow strokes and

Following the rhythmically captivating yet lyrical Giusto movement comes a boisterous and lively Allegro. Both movements are drawn from Handel's celebrated Op. 6 collection and provide

Feature your top two violinists (or guest performers) in this wonderful adaptation of the first movement of Vivaldi's Mandolin Concerto in C Major. Includes passages for solo cello. An optional but highly

Eine Kleine Nachtmusik was written near the end of Mozart's short life (1787) as a four-movement serenade for chamber strings. It has become one of his most-performed works, and this easy

This finale was originally scored in F major for strings, oboe and continuo. This edition moves the key to D Major, adds a unique second violin part, and provides added articulations to make the work more

The finale of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 is a fantastic orchestral movement. It is very grand in nature and appears to reflect Tchaikovsky’s nationalist writing tendencies.... view details

In this modern twist on Mendelssohn's epic Hebrides Overture, low strings get to dig into energetic accented bass lines as two prominent themes weave through the orchestra. This arrangement is very

This is an excellent showcase for string players! The Grave (about 1:20) lets your players show their slow, esspresivo side in a doleful D minor. The F major Finale is a lilting 3/8 jig