A call-and-response work, this is a fun one where each voice has the melody at various times. It's all about having a fun conversation within the orchestra, with rhythmic vitality and harmonic variety!
One of the most celebrated of traditional Czech dances, this movement from Dvorak's suite is a delight on any concert program. Minimal shifting for first violins.
Easygoing and reflecting a freer, more carefree era of the past, this piece contains elements of jazz and blues. It pays homage to an unnamed figure - students can dedicate their performance to their
This lively composition in D major celebrates the excitement of a new day, new hopes, new accomplishments. Each new day is a gift, and as musicians we can share music with each other.
The fifth piece in Woolstenhulme's popular "Mystical" series, this one will take players and audiences on a high-energy journey of mystical proportions! As orchestras rehearse the work, students have the
People of all ages are intrigued about space travel and journeying out into the unknown. This programmatic work takes our imaginations out to where asteroids, planets, and stars reside in deep space. The
Using seven songs connected with Abraham Lincoln during his life along with narration taken primarily from Lincoln's own words and those of his contemporaries, this dramatic masterpiece spotlights Lincoln's
From one of Rameua's opera-ballets, this dance composed in rondo form is a true gem! A few moments of shifting for first violins and basses.
Based on a three-note rhythmic motif, this jazzy, high-energy original work has strong melodies and infectious rhythmic components. Shifting is not required.
Composed in rondo form, this work is big and bold, filled with spirited melodies in reminiscent of Russian folk and popular music. It's superb as a concert opener or closer.
Ignatius Sancho (1729-1780) was born on a slave ship bound for the Spanish West Indies. He ended up in London in the service of a duke where he learned to read, write, and learn music on his own. Sancho was
This two-movement suite pays homage to the Dogpatch (Arkansas) area. The first movement captures the enthusiasm of wagon-train travelers ready to embark on a new life out west. The second movement portrays
American composer Basile Bares (1845-1902) began life as a slave child in New Orleans. He lived and worked for a piano shop owner who gave him opportunities to study music and tune pianos. Bares became
Colorful and graceful, this accessible arrangement begins in G major, transitions to G minor, then back to G major. Although Respighi composed the movement from his first suite in 1917, it captures a
This lively original work pays tribute to the American circus and the many different clowns and clown acts that have graced the Big Top for many generations. A variety of captivating themes spark the
This original work takes players and audiences on a journey that begins in darkness, symbolizing emotions such as sadness and loneliness, gradually pulling out of these depths and into shadows and finally
This lighthearted and fun work embodies the lightness of spirit at the dawn of a brand-new sunny day. Key signature makes it great for reinforcing low first and second fingerings. All parts are in first
While the title is a reference to Christmas taken from a Shaker poem, this is a great choice for any time of year. Its driving forward motion and strong melodic voicing make it a wonderful piece for young
The Andante movement showcases Schubert's genius for composing beautiful and flowing melodies. This well-crafted arrangement captures the warmth throughout the movement just as it was originally
This beautiful arrangement of a famed vocal piece of the Spanish Renaissance allows string orchestras to explore its rich colors, even during the quietest of moments. The use of imitation and echoing from
The elegant and regal melody is reminiscent of a 17th-century royal court. A great performance selection, this is also perfect for developing tonal color, blend, part independence, scale patterns, and group
Powerful and vigorous from measure one to the end, the rhythms are patterned after heavy metal. Chord structures are rich and complex. The solo violin part is designed to showcase an advanced/professional
This original piece illustrates how, when on the brink of a decision, most of us vacillate while determining which way to go. This indecision is conveyed with major and minor underpinnings. In between the