Sight Reading Suggestions for Strings Wednesday, December 01, 2021
6 Suggestions to Sight Read with Your Orchestra
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recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist
Atlantis by Todd Parrish, Grade 1
An exciting journey through Atlantis awaits students in this straight-forward composition using notes of the B natural-minor scale. Using only the notes and rhythms learned in the first year of study, this work is very accessible for beginning to intermediate students. Dynamic contrasts from piano to forte are explored including crescendos and decrescendos, along with short and long bowing articulations. The minor-key feel of this work will motivate students from the first rehearsal to the final performance.
Never Let Up by Brian Balmages, Grade 1
Persistence, dedication, intention and drive. Exploring the dynamics of human resiliency, this aggressive work relies on driving rhythmic elements, stately melodic lines and intense harmonic moments. Heroic and powerful from start to finish!
Snowy Woods by James O. Lockett, Grade 1.5
Envision a crackling fireplace on a snowy December night or imagine gazing out the window in the morning at the beauty of a new-fallen snow – this beautiful original work will warm the audience and players with delight. A beautiful melody and colorful harmonies combined with lush and expert scoring will make the developing orchestra sound full. A harp (optional piano) part adds to the perfect palette of color. A must-have holiday gem.
Acidic by Tyler Arcari, Grade 1
Tyler Arcari brings us a driving contest piece that is sure to keep your students motivated. Cinematic-like orchestra hits and biting rhythms make for a fun experience, while lyrical contrast in the B-section is perfect for introducing expressive playing. Your students will ask to play this one over and over!
Mountain Run by Liam Ramsey-White, Grade 1.5
As the name implies, this work portrays a morning run up a mountain and the feeling that comes with the wonderful vistas that surround. Students will experience images of beautiful vegetation and fresh-water streams as they traverse the mountain path. All notes are playable in D Major after just a couple years of study, with no low second fingers. The adventurous theme and accompaniments are composed of simple rhythms that sound great and are easy to put together.
Twilight Smiling by Larry Clark, Grade 0.5
There is sometimes a lack of sensitive music at this grade level, which is why “Twilight Smiling” by Larry Clark is so great. Wonderful opportunities to teach expressive playing and phrasing, this lyrical work will be a hit at any concert throughout the school year.
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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.