Written to simultaneously depict the journey of graduating seniors with the composer’s own journey to the other side of the world without his family, the music pulls at every emotional string it can
The Adagio movement of Rachmaninoff's second symphony is considered by many to be one of most beautiful melodies ever written. A continuing favorite in today's concert halls (as well as film and TV), it
Here's the 3rd movement from "Symphony #8," one of Dvorak's most famous works and it certainly carries his penchant for memorable melodies! Allegretto Grazioso, is actually based on a song from an
This movement of the famous "Organ Symphony" includes two of the most memorable themes ever penned by Saint-Saens. This arrangement includes the highly energetic string theme and the beautiful fugue based
A musical description of four of the wonders of the ancient world: the grandeur of the Temple of Artemis located in Ephesus (present-day Turkey); the majesty of the Great Lighthouse at Alexandria, Egypt;
The Wilhousky setting of this 19th-century hymn is possibly the most heartfelt musical pronouncement of American patriotism. Divisi sections in all parts are accessible and still richly expressive with
Tuneful, energetic, and emotional, this piece presents a sonic kaleidoscope of playing styles that will challenge every section of the advanced string orchestra. The unexpected harmonies and exotic rhythms
After a stately fanfare introduces a five-note motif, this celebratory overture blossoms into a joyful concert selection that will be enthusiastically received each time it is
Mozart's Requiem in D minor is a sublime work, and the Kyrie is a masterful lesson in fugal writing, requiring the students to really count. Every section of the orchestra plays the syncopated entries, tied
Great fun and a whole lot more! This exciting, familiar work will give new life to your rehearsals and will be a standout at any concert. Enjoy!
Two solo violins and a solo viola introduce this piece through a haunting, lyrical theme, which is subsequently taken up by the entire orchestra. It expands, gradually morphing into a fast and frenetic
This ninth variation from Elgar's "Enigma Variations" is the most played and most beautiful of the variations. Due to its overwhelming expressive quality, it has become England's counterpart to Adagio
Allowing students to explore a full range of expression, this arrangement further develops musicality as individuals and as an ensemble. The beautiful yet plaintive melody weaves seamlessly through several
William Hofeldt's inspiration has come from the Oscar Wilde poem with the same name. Its sheer depth and beauty is clearly Hofeldt at his best. Contains shifting work during octave divisi moments.
Firmly rooted in the standard violin repertoire, Symphonie Espagnole is a brilliant work that showcases the violin's lyrical beauty and technical virtuosity with a Spanish style. After keeping the
The heroic finale of the symphony Brahms took over fourteen years to write is an unforgettable masterwork. Give your students the chance to perform this one! Recorded by Michigan State University Orchestra
Although the instrumentation has been condensed from full orchestra to string orchestra, most of the original elements have been preserved. Arranged in the key of G Major instead of the original B-flat
The heroic second movement of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony is full of themes and variations. In this accessible arrangement, the original key of A-flat major has been changed to C major, and the original time
In Beethoven's words, "the 'Pastoral' symphony is more an expression of feeling than painting... pleasant feelings which awaken in men on arriving in the countryside." A perfect introduction to Beethoven's
A stunningly beautiful piece for the more advanced ensemble, the melodies are gorgeous and the harmonies are thick and lush. There is nice interplay between all of the sections of the orchestra that serve