Daybreak

Written in a friendly D major, this piece begins like the dawning of a new day, lyrical and tranquil. Throughout the opening, the focus is on larger group phrasing and dynamic contrast. Moving on to an upbeat, articulate, and jovial section, the focus moves to hooked bowings and rhythmic triplets that span all strings and give cellos and violas more time on the C string. Sections throughout provide moments of part independence. This is a great piece to practice different musical styles, bowings, dynamic contrast, and overall ensemble playing. (3:10)