MUSIC LISTS

Editors' Choice
This very simple arrangement really can be played by beginning students. The pentatonic nature of the melody avoids any issues with high or low second fingers, and the open string drones are easy and effective.  The tune is played in both the key of G and the key of D.  This is music they will be able play after only a short while.

This is a simply beautiful hymn and Elliot Del Borgo's fine arrangement really brings out the message.  Starting delicately, the piece builds in texture into a full presentation of the melody.

One of the most beloved hymns of all times, this early American folk melody has been expertly arranged. The simple but challenging arrangement will appeal to young musicians, with everyone getting a chance to play the melody during the round section.  The final section is harmonized differently for variety, and to bring the arrangement to a close.Very nice!

Teach your students different playing styles in this fascinating work that takes the beloved folk hymn through different musical periods. Opening as a simple anthem, it gets different treatments as it travels through the Baroque, Classical, Romantic and even Impressionist musical style periods before finally coming home to the closing section marked, "Folk Hymn Style." Very nice!

An emotional arrangement, rich and pastoral, this is ideal for the grade 3 string orchestra and the grade 2 orchestra that has a violinist who handles some basic third position! The use of divisi teaches independence and extends the range of the string orchestra, making it sound rich and full. The tune is presented three times in the three keys that are the most resonant for strings, A, D, and G, with each setting more powerful and beautiful than the last.

Editors' Choice
This lush, beautiful arrangement of a movie classic includes beautiful harmonies and flowing accompaniment lines. The melody moves smoothly between all sections. With educational packs included, this tune is perfect for teaching tone and fluid bow strokes.

This timeless classic from "The Wizard Of Oz" was actually named Song Of The Century! Cerulli's arrangement takes advantage of all the basic skills young string players have acquired and uses them to produce fantastic results. It's a warm, rich setting that both players and audience will enjoy.Consider these other classic titles to go along with it: Ding Dong The Witch Is Dead; (2475179); We're Off To See The Wizard! (2416436) and If I Only Had a Brain (2475178).

Basic Library
Originally written as the slow movement of a string quartet, this musical treasure was singled out by conductor Arturo Toscanini, who asked Barber for a string orchestra arrangement. It was played on a national radio broadcast following the death of president Roosevelt and has been part of the national consciousness ever since. This is a work of singular beauty and calls for great expressiveness and control.

Editors' Choice
Samuel Barber's best-known work has become an icon of contemporary orchestral literature. Jamin Hoffman's arrangement now makes this landmark work accessible to advancing groups with key, range and length adjustments, giving your students the opportunity to play one of the most important pieces of our time.  This is a must-have for every string library!

Composed by a Newtown resident, this music is a heartfelt effort to spread the healing force of music. This arrangement includes two sets of parts (grade 2 and grade 3, respectively) so that older and younger students may perform the piece either together or separately. Through the performance of the Newtown Peace Anthem you and your students can show your community the passion string educators and string students have for the creation of beauty in the world, the power of ensemble-inspired cooperation, and the key role music can play in any community as a healing and community-building agent.