Editors' Choice
Embark on an exciting jazz adventure with this fantastic swing chart for strings and drum set. Incredible harmonies mimic a modern jazz orchestra as the music moves through shout choruses, break strains, and more. No solos in this one; just fantastic ensemble writing from the first note to the last!

"String Basics: Steps to Success for String Orchestra" is a comprehensive method for beginning string classes. Through technical exercises, music from around the world, classical themes by the masters, and original compositions, students will learn to play their stringed instruments in an orchestra. Step-by-step sequences of instruction will prove invaluable as students learn to hold their instruments and bows, finger new notes, count different rhythms, read music notation, and more. Clear, full-color photographs and fingering chart diagrams introduce playing positions, bow holding and bowing, and left-hand finger patterns. Duets, rounds, trios, and orchestra arrangements develop students' ability to play in an ensemble setting right away, thereby strengthening ear training and intonation. The "Interactive Practice Studio" is a unique downloadable resource containing a wealth of supporting biographical, historical, and cultural information: photos; maps; artwork; audio samples; video and more. "Video Lessons" offer students and teachers a comprehensive, step-by-step look at concepts taught throughout the method. Lessons are taught in a middle school classroom setting by the authors; the lessons show special consideration for each instrument, and one lesson is specially devoted to shifting for the bass. "Theory & Composition" offers students hands-on experience to better understand what they see and hear by actually learning to notate music and compose simple melodic lines. The Teacher's Edition provides successful teaching strategies, divided into two categories: "Performance" and "Musical Understanding." "Guidelines" and "Guideposts" assist in giving students a comprehensive experience in orchestra. Also available to teachers is the "Interactive Teacher's Studio," with even more helpful tips and strategies.

This popular wedding series continues with this third volume of great wedding standards arranged for flexible ensembles. Includes: Purcell's Trumpet Tune; Prelude to Te Deum; Rigaudon; and Mouret's Rondeau (from Masterpiece Theater). All are arranged at a medium-easy level and the voicings allow for various instrumentation in the trios.

If you are looking for a truly beautiful guitar ensemble that is classical-based, but has a contemporary flavor, then this is it. This adaptation of Bach's famous Air from his 3rd Orchestral Suite in D Major has all the subtlety and sensitivity that you would expect from such a wonderful composer but it is placed over the top of a modern drum groove and a warm, smooth bass line which gives the music a whole fresh appeal. This piece obviously requires good clean classical guitar technique to do it justice, but your musicians will get it together very quickly and your audience will love it. Acoustic Guitar 1: Medium/Easy Acoustic Guitar 2: Medium/Easy Acoustic Guitar 3: Medium/Easy Bass/Drums: Medium

Editors' Choice
Don't be fooled by the gentle opening statement - this is hard rock for strings! Inspiration for this selection came from hair bands of the '80s, although its well-arranged for string ensemble. There is even a power ballad section in the middle for good measure. Rock on!

Originally composed for chamber ensemble, this sultry tango features a violin, flute or oboe solo with string orchestra. A lovely piece that is incredibly expressive and emotional.

The gentle folk style of this Mancini film theme is a perfect fit for string quartet. Robert's tasteful version features violin solo moments, a striking key change, and a Celtic-flavored tune.

Editors' Choice
Here is a classic Haydn string quartet for developing string orchestras. This fun arrangement of the Finale from The Bird stays true to the original elements, yet is quite accessible for younger students. Ensembles aiming for a more refined, classical tone will have great success with this popular work while enjoying its light-hearted nature.

This all-pizzicato work for young strings imitates the kalimba, an African instrument also known as an mbira or thumb piano. The sweet, soothing lullaby uses simple rhythms for young players. An authentically arranged multicultural experience for your ensemble.

The haunting Sicilienne is one of Faure's best known melodies, and lends itself extremely well to string orchestra. Scored in the original key of G minor, the melody effortless weaves throughout the ensemble while the unique harmonies add an incredible dimension of color. Simply beautiful.