Full of educational opportunities, this driving and wonderfully melodic piece for younger orchestras abounds with slurred string crossings, staccato and legato bowing technique, low second fingering, and a

This bluesy all-pizzicato piece is a great introduction to simple ties, slight syncopation, and optional swing-style playing. Students also get to practice easy alternating F- and... view details

Introduce students to simple cut time and the key of G minor with this lively piece. A consistent rhythmical motif propels the momentum forward, and the staccato bowings highlighting the rising and falling

This powerful, dramatic song portrays a worn Native American trail and the story it tells of the people in its past. Different points of tribal history are depicted through various parts of the work. Every

This exciting work for string orchestra features thematic material taken from songs of the 12th to 14th century "Pilgrim Road" to Jerusalem. Technically demanding, the driving thematic materials of the

Using only the notes on the open strings, unison writing, and simple quarter- and eighth-note rhythms, this exciting and very accessible original work is the perfect choice for a beginning orchestra's first

In Greek mythology, Orion was a mighty hunter often portrayed as an archer. In this exciting original work, students also get to wield their bows as they perform a bold, dramatic melody with bow lifts! With

A bit of Irish lore woven into a mystical piece for string orchestra. With subtle nods to the folk writing of Vaughan Williams, this original work is based on the story of St. Ghobnait, also known as the

Using only the first six notes of the D major scale and quarter-note rhythms, this catchy piece is perfect for your beginning orchestra. All sections have a turn to play the hummable melody while

"Perilous" means full of danger or risk. This intense piece sounds perilous, but your youngest string players can handle it! The piece uses only the first six notes of the D major scale yet it is

Opening with a catchy theme, this work explores countermelodies as well as recurrences of the theme. Syncopated rhythms are common and are aided by running eighth notes that help subdivide the pattern. It's

Inspired by a photo of a ghostly, forgotten ballroom in Shanghai, Phantom Waltz is a melancholy echo of the past. This 6/8 piece features two solo cellos, melodramatic melodies,... view details

This jubilant overture is bristling with energetic ostinatos and heroic melodies for each section. Students will reinforce multiple slurs, syncopation, and basic shifting, and audiences will be inspired by

Neither section of this piece is written like a traditional polka or waltz. The polka-esque section is written in 4/4 time and the waltz-like section in 12/4 time. This helps unify the piece by enabling

Painting the image of an adventure by a Pony Express rider, a galloping rhythm persists, together with exciting harmonies, to make this adventure come to life.  It is important that this piece maintain

Work on shifting technique with a powerhouse rock performance! Driving, accented bass lines and syncopated melodies energize this original piece that follows the form and style of pop song... view details

Written with the second-year string player in mind, this work shares the majestic theme throughout the orchestra. Students will reinforce basic articulations using only quarter and eighth notes. An

This stately processional with a Renaissance feel allows developing students to explore the sound of D minor while avoiding any B flats. Optional percussion adds courtly airs to this regal melody for

You'll hear the emotion in this piece from start to finish. It's lush, pensive, and has a multitude of places for students to push and pull the tempo and phrase for great musical effect. A wonderful

A three movement visit to Germany, featuring three traditional folk songs from the Rhineland.  Accessible and very tuneful material for the developing string ensemble.  Titles: Wedding at