Fiddle & Folk for Orchestra Wednesday, April 14, 2021
recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist
Eight titles of fiddling fun for violins, violas, and cellos!
Barnyard Variations by Andrew H. Dabczynski, Grade 3.5
“Barnyard Variations” is a creative set of humorous variants on the familiar “Old MacDonald” folk song. Every orchestra section is featured in a variation, each musically imitating a different barnyard animal. Students explore contemporary techniques with a bluegrass flare. This piece makes an excellent opening or closing piece for concerts, or an introduction to the instruments in recruiting or educational programs.
Dance of the Dells by Janelle Zook Cunalata, Grade 1
Hop aboard the ferry and delight in the impressive rock formations along the Wisconsin River gorge known as the notorious Wisconsin Dells. The blazing sun, rollicking river, and the stunning rock formations on the towering cliffs put a spring in your step and a dance to your feet. Composed with the emerging musician in mind, “Dance of the Dells” is both fun to play and listen to, with contrasting dynamics, dance-inspired rhythms, and a climactic ending. Enjoy the scenery and join the fun in “Dance of the Dells!”
Feng Yang Song (Flower Drum Song) arr. Bob Phillips, Grade 2
One of the most enduring Chinese melodies dating back to the Ming Dynasty, this arrangement of “Feng Yang Song,” or “Flower Drum Song,” will provide technical development, listening skills, and is just beautiful. Arranged by Bob Phillips using the G and D major pentatonic scales, the sounds that might have been heard centuries ago are well-represented in the strings. All sections play the melody as well as accompaniment parts in pizzicato or as percussive taps on the top of their instruments using the finger pads of the left hand.
Fiddle Fury by Kathryn Griesinger, Grade 3
The fast and furious pace of this fiery work never slows down, bringing the energy and spirit of a hoedown that ventures into a few unconventional rhythms and syncopated accompaniments. Exciting!
Frost on the Plow by Samuel Gelfer, Grade 3.5
Frost on the Plow is an energetic composition perfect for introducing some fiddlin’ fun to your classroom. Written in the style of traditional fiddle-tunes, players will encounter authentic fiddle techniques such as shuffle-bowing, chops, and double-stops at a brisk tempo.
Hoedown Showdown by Neridah Oostenbroek, Grade 3
Get ready to have some fun with this energetic western-style romp! Showcasing a melody that weaves its way through every section, the piece also makes use of open string drones and syncopated rhythms, bringing the country-style flair to life. Outstanding and infectious!
Isle of Anglesey arr. Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 2.5
The Isle of Anglesey (Welsh: Ynys Mon) lies just off the coast of Wales. This island contains the largest seaport bringing passengers to and from Ireland. In this charming arrangement, two traditional Welsh and Irish airs are combined and woven throughout the orchestra, bridging the waters between these beautiful lands.
A Somerset Lament and Reel by William Camphouse, Grade 3.5
Cast from original melodic ideas in ABA form (slow-fast-slow) with modal tonality and a feel akin to the music native to the British Isles.
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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.