Black Cat

This spooky Halloween adventure incorporates meowing cats, tremolos foretelling eerie events, pizzicato suggesting stealthy cat movement, and loads of scary melodic material in the minor mode for all sections. Written at a Level 2, it is a perfect early concert piece for developing string orchestras. A piano part is included for rehearsal, which may be used during performance at the director's discretion. All parts except bass are in first position, allowing directors to focus on intonation, blend, dynamics, and rhythmic accuracy.The etymology of the score marking "Scarioso" is unknown, but its source could be the topic of a lively discussion! Subito pianissimos for violin 2 and viola add to the mystery and overall dramatic effect of. This piece offers an ideal opportunity to introduce glissandos for violin 1, 2, and cello. The final three-note chord in violin 1 and 2 as well as the double-stopped pizzicato D to B-flat in the cellos are opportunities for focus and discussion. The 2:33 performance time can be shortened by eliminating the repeated section.