Here is a work of simplicity and beauty with some contemporary harmonies. Recorded by Michigan State University Orchestra on the CD Teaching Music Through Performance in Orchestra, Volume 1 -

Written for the true beginner, this piece takes the listener on an eerie tour that can best be described as an unsettling experience with a touch of curiosity and anxiousness. Piano and optional celesta

For the very youngest musicians, this highly energetic piece does not use eighth notes, is based on a one-octave D Major scale, and uses mostly stepwise motion throughout. Despite these features, the music

Many fictional works portray the moon as a living being, alone in space while looking at the Earth. This lullaby honors this "living moon," portraying various emotions including the loneliness of watching

There's a ninja on the loose and he's sneaking through the orchestra. Your students will love making up storylines for what happens next in this colorful Asian-flavored piece that uses only the notes of the

In Greek mythology, Boreas is the cold north wind, making this piece a great addition to any winter concert. The mysterious opening leads to an exciting finale. Students will experience spiccato

Energize your performers and audience with this powerful, dynamic work. Opening in rhythmic unison, the piece quickly projects blocks of sound and a flurry of rhythmic activity. The musical texture comes

Inspired by pure joy, this work explores uplifting and lighthearted emotions. The music has a constant rhythmic pulse that gently interacts with graceful melodic lines and countermelodies. Engaging

This captivating work is a set of variations on the Pong Lang Dance, one of Thailand's most popular melodies. The pong lang is like a xylophone with its wooden keys suspended vertically on

This dynamic and riveting work depicts an ancient battle scene or ferocious weather system. A lyrical melody contrasts with an intense rhythmic groove complete with optional percussion. A great work to