Teaching Pieces for Orchestra Thursday, January 13, 2022
Teachable Titles for String Orchestra Programs
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recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist
Open String March by Jiyoung Um, Grade B
Using only the notes on the open strings, unison writing, and simple quarter- and eighth-note rhythms, this exciting and very accessible original work is the perfect choice for a beginning orchestra’s first performance. This piece also provides an excellent tool to introduce young players to dynamics and double stops. A simple piano accompaniment provides an excellent harmonic backdrop.
On a Swing by Lauren Bernofsky, Grade 0.5
Lauren Bernofsky wants young string players to love playing music, from the very beginning of their studies. Therefore, she likes writing early-level pieces that are fun, yet pedagogically helpful. “On a Swing” is played on only open strings, so students can focus on their bow holds and bowing without having to think about left-hand fingers. The piece gets its harmonic and rhythmic interest from the piano part. This work is dedicated to Sandy Mutchler, who fondly remembers her dear friend, the strings pedagogue Linda Luebke. The title and feel of the piece reflect the times they spent together on a porch swing. The back-and-forth motion of the swing is imitated in the up-and-down bows. Students should think of a relaxed, swinging motion with their bodies as they play this piece.
Chaps ‘n Spurs by Susan Day, Grade 2
This upbeat Western themed grade 2 piece features lively melodies for all, with teaching opportunities to reinforce accents, hooked bows, pizzicato, two note slurs, lifts, cello divisi, slides, dynamics, and easy rhythms. Written in the key of G throughout, the opening theme is announced by all the upper strings in unison. Care should be taken not to make the notes too short and choppy. This fun and happy piece is perfect for any performance occasion!
Viva Amadeus! by W.A. Mozart/arr. Richard Meyer, Grade 2
It’s Mozart with a Latin twist! “Viva Amadeus!” arranged by Richard Meyer is a charming reworking of “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.” It is sure to make your audience smile while providing your students with opportunities to work on syncopation and “south of the border” dance rhythms. Fun for everyone, as all the sections take turns stepping into the melodic spotlight. Latin percussion parts add to the cha-cha feel of this irresistible celebration. Olé!
Luminosity by Liam Ramsey-White, Grade 3.5
Brilliant, fresh and bright! Newcomer Liam Ramsey-White has created a piece that is truly luminous. Work on bell-tone techniques and harmonics as well as mixed-meter in this accessible grade 3 piece for string orchestra. The piece uniquely ends on a “fade-out” effect, that will spice up any concert program.
Drops of Sun by Sean O’Loughlin, Grade 3.5
“Drops of Sun” was written to provide teaching opportunities around the concept of “composite rhythms.” Composer Sean O’Loughlin writes “Throughout my career, I have always had a fascination with composite rhythms and how they sound to an audience. ‘Drops of Sun’ explores this concept and more to provide many wonderful musical teaching opportunities to the advancing string ensemble.”
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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.