To the Stars: Orchestra Adventures Wednesday, June 15, 2022
Adventure and Quest to find Legends and Destiny in the orchestra classroom
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recommended by Megan W., Orchestra Specialist
Dragon’s Flight by Liam Ramsey-White, Grade 1
Newcomer Liam Ramsey-White flies out of the gate with “Dragon’s Flight!” Liam knows how to write for string orchestra and it shows with this dynamic and intense work. Students will take a journey alongside this ancient and mythical creature in this light and fun work, perfect for any concert opener or closer.
Night Legend by David Hinds, Grade 1.5
We have all heard of legends best told around a campfire! Journey to new and exciting lands of legends with David Hind’s new work for developing string orchestra.
Camelot Quest by Katie O’Hara LaBrie, Grade 1.5
Imagine riding through Camelot on a quest to save the kingdom. Every player will be the hero in this medieval inspired tune, “Camelot Quest” by Katie Katie O’Hara LaBrie. Written in E minor, students will be introduced to D-sharps through low 1st finger as well as dotted-quarter rhythms in every part. Students and audiences alike will love the mixed energy of marcato ostinato patterns vs. the legato melodies. The journey concludes with a joust-like battle, adding excitement to any concert or festival program. Optional percussion adds to the medieval flair.
Legend of the Knight by Chris Thomas, Grade 2
This very cinematic work uses dramatic scoring to chronicle the quest of a mysterious knight who has been summoned forth to defend the kingdom. Driving eighth notes and dark low-string themes depict the mythical warrior rising from the mist, then soaring, triumphant high strings show the hero in victory. A thrilling addition to your next concert program.
Searching for Destiny’s Diamond by Kirt Mosier, Grade 1.5
“Searching for Destiny’s Diamond” is a mysterious work that centers around the idea of young people searching out their destiny during dark times. It involves intrigue and tension, as they journey towards their purpose and the diamond that is their bright future. Every instrument in the orchestra begins with the melody and plays it throughout the piece, making this work an excellent teaching piece since all parts can be learned at the same time. The second half of the work is a musical stretto with the melodic figure offset by one measure in Violin II, Viola and Bass. This makes for some intriguing harmonies that will increase the student’s hearing ability and bring tension to the piece. While this piece can be performed without piano, it is desired that the piano be played in performance, as it adds intrigue to the sound. The piano part has been written so that it can be performed by developing pianists.
Ad Astra (To the Stars) by Richard Meyer, Grade 3
Take your orchestra on a fantastic journey into the far reaches of outer space with this thrilling overture that is sure to capture the imaginations of all of your young performers. Memorable melodies abound here, and the variety of key signatures, time signatures, and musical styles make this a great teaching piece perfect for contest or festival. The interesting orchestration gives this piece a mature, cinematic sound and allows every section of the string orchestra their chance in the spotlight. “Ad Astra” is a fantastic work by Richard Meyer!
Shadowgate by Christian A. Williams, Grade 3
Here is a thrilling cinematic experience that puts you right in the middle of a high-flying action movie. Driving bass lines, pedal points, dramatic dynamic shifts, and themes built on half-step intervals will have musicians and concertgoers wanting more! Violin 1 utilizes harmonics.
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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.