Halloween Music for String Orchestra Friday, August 21, 2020
recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist
Become your own percussion section and make your own sound effects with these new titles for Halloween!
Little Critters by Brian Balmages, Grade 1
The vivid imagery of “little critters” scurrying about at night inspires the melodic lines and creative harmonies used throughout this programmatic work. Beginning soft and mischievous, the music builds as new critters join the fun in a playful dialogue. The harmonic language moves between moments of pleasant consonance and slight dissonance (because as we all know, some people love little critters and some people are terrified of them!). A highly imaginative, playable work!
TEACH: minor key signature, start pizzicato, alternate between pizzicato and arco, dissonance
ORCHESTRATION: sound effects and dynamics, dialog between sections
PERFORMANCE: create “creepy” imagery
Robot Factory by Chris M. Bernotas, Grade 1
Special effects, pizzicato, and a variety of dynamics will make “Robot Factory” by Chris M. Bernotas exciting for your beginning orchestra students. The key of E minor provides a dark sound, and all sections get to play the energetic melody! This piece will be a great feature or perfect closer to any contest or concert.
TEACH: E minor, rhythmic rests, start pizzicato
ORCHESTRATION: slapping sound effects
PERFORMANCE: dark, pretend to be a robot assembly line
Escape! by R. Scott Whittington, Grade 3
“Escape!” takes players and listeners into the lighthearted world of intrigue and suspense. Think 1970’s television mystery shows. Players work with glissandi, and other effects to create an aura of mystery. This piece invites your students to create the story behind the music. It’s fun for all!
TEACH: fast fingers, accents and dynamics
ORCHESTRATION: stay together – do not speed up
PERFORMANCE: attention grabber, suspense creator
Chasing Shadows by Michael Kamuf, Grade 2.5
“Chasing Shadows” by Michael Kamuf features soaring melodies, driving rhythms, and bold harmonies which work together to create cinematic overtones. The use of syncopated rhythms throughout will help reinforce your orchestra’s understanding of subdivision. A perfect selection for concerts and festivals that both students and audiences will enjoy! This title is available in SmartMusic.
TEACH: syncopation & subdivision
ORCHESTRATION: soaring melodies and unique parts
PERFORMANCE: cinematic score, bold harmonies
Find more Five Star Features for string orchestra on our website, and shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
About the Author:
Megan W., originally from Pittsburgh PA, is happy to call Columbus and Stanton’s Sheet Music “Home.” As a musician, Megan has played in marching and concert bands, youth orchestras, full orchestras, small ensembles, and a few choirs. Her interests include fiddling, reading, writing, martial arts and yoga.