Lighter Selections for String Orchestra

Counting is important in this sneaky E minor piece that reminds students that rests are as important as notes! Simple rhythms include ties, and techniques include a variety of articulations such as

A great fast-paced and aggressive work for the string ensemble presented in three sections full of drama and intrigue. Driving rhythmic features will keep your musicians engaged and ready to play this one

As the title indicates, this charming piece beautifully reinforces dotted rhythms and low-second patterns. Its lively dance-like character will be a popular addition to any concert occasion.

Scored in authentic Classical style, excerpts from "A Little Night Music"; "The Marriage of Figaro" and "The Magic Flute" intertwine with the traditional nursery tunes Jack and Jill; Three Blind

Designed with early-intermediate orchestras in mind, this fun selection has a modern sound that will rock your next concert. It features great practice for dotted rhythms, basic syncopation and

Picture the image of jolly and chunky penguins walking (or wobbling) in single-file across the snow! A wonderfully charming work for the developing string orchestra - students will love this one.

This arrangement of The Prince of Denmark March, or Trumpet Voluntary, provides the perfect setting for advocacy and striving for excellence since it is so recognizable. Three different

A fresh composition that creates a light feel with catchy melodies, this spirited piece conjures the images and sounds of barn and prairie dances of the years gone by.

An E minor driving rock beat and two sets of parts will allow you to combine absolute beginners and second year students with great success. The easier parts are simple rhythms, and use limited range with

This fun tune evokes classic spy dramas, full of intrigue and mystery, with just a few easy sixteenth notes and accidentals along the way. Quick pizzicato, ties, and off-beat rhythms provide a challenging

Fun is the name of the game! This rhythmic dance piece includes foot stomping, instrument tapping, and col legno. A cute melody propelled by the rhythmic activity will have everyone smiling. 

Brimming with intrigue and suspense, this exciting marriage of themes from "The Barber of Seville" with an iconic "shark in the water" motive will keep everyone on the edge of their seats. All Seville

Here's a fun, jazzy, all-pizzicato selection for early beginners to play at one of their first concerts! Built around a strong, steady beat, it uses only the D and A strings, half, quarter, and eighth

Learn to speak alien, using colorful dissonances and chromaticism. Approach the rhythmic aspects of alien-speak through dotted notes and syncopation. There are opportunities to work on shifting (violin 1,

Try this tender folk song from Taiwan to develop your students' sensitive and lyric style. Accompanied by lush, modern-sounding harmonies, the melody is passed to each section. The solos for violin and

Try this sneaky way to teach chromatic fingerings and half position. The syncopated theme makes appearances in all sections, both in pizzicato and arco. Your middle school orchestra will love this