Acadia First Light sensitively conveys the rising sun as it first greets America each morning on Cadillac Mountain at Acadia National Park in Maine. Written in celebration of that park's
As the title implies, the piece uses echo effects throughout. Based on the interval of a descending perfect fifth, it begins with a lush statement of the subtle "angel" theme, which is used throughout the
This original piece is in a style reminiscent of the music of the rich cultural heritage of the Appalachia. Music is an important part of the Appalachian way of life. Traditional Appalachian music is
Archaic Voices was written at the request of a friend of the composer who wanted an easy piece she could use to introduce low first-finger B flats. Her students really responded to the aggressive
This charming piece is a perfect choice for a first festival experience and will help any group sound more mature. Written in first position in the keys of G and D, it is a great piece to work on low and
One of Boccherini's most famous pieces, this joyful minuet comes from the third movement of his "Quintet in E Major." Robert's version is ideally scored for string ensembles and will make a super program
Hauntingly beautiful, this arrangement in E minor of an old Irish air brings sweeping melodies and rich harmonies together in a way that only Atwell can do. Shifting required for cello and bass
Dedicated to the composer's young son, this piece was written with thoughts of his playful nature which can be heard throughout. The lush, emotional opening depicts the composer's awe at being a parent to a
Make your young strings sound like experienced musicians with this high-intensity Spanish-flavored composition. Featuring percussion and a variety of dynamics and articulations, it is exciting and fun to
One of several popular dances from the time of the French Renaissance, this setting has a driving pulse with attractive modal harmonies in the friendly key of E natural minor. All instruments have melodic
Delightful and treasured, Grieg's "Holberg Suite" is not to be missed. This arrangement of the Gavotte for younger players includes a "learning bank."
A heartfelt piece that is dedicated to the memory of a lost student, this music is emotional at times and beautiful at others. It is meant to depict all of the aspects of the life of the person
The grand style of a Tchaikovsky symphonic march is ideal for developing string groups with this impressive ensemble piece from Robert Longfield. Lots of dynamic and style changes in a comfortable march
This energetic adventure-themed rondo has every section taking the lead and heading off into the horizon looking for adventure. The rhythm of the main theme is used for new melodies in the contrasting
With lyrical, scalar melodies in E minor, flowing and intuitive phrases, and main themes circulated throughout the orchestra, this work provides each section of the ensemble with exciting musical challenges
This contemporary work paints a musical picture of a late-night outdoor escapade using flowing melodies soaring over rich harmonies and driving rhythmic figures. Perfect as an opening or closing selection,
This original work in E minor is delightfully set to allow each section to play the melody. Ending with the softness of moonlight, this one will develop ensemble performance and dynamics.
You can almost hear the choir in the background as you listen to the sentimentally beautiful Mountain Hymn. This work will give young musicians practice with lyrical playing and expressive
Featuring a lovely and appropriate use of pizzicato with optional piano under the soloist opening section, Northern Lights is evocative, melodically distinguished, and cleverly scored to help a
The music paints a picture of the expansive Southwest. It contains open American-sounding harmonies made famous by the likes of Copland, yet it has all of the signature sounds of the composer. Lyrical lines