New Chances, New Dances: Level Up Your Orchestra! Monday, September 26, 2022
recommended by Eric Stratton and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists
New Chances, New Dances by Richard Meyer, Grade 3
This lively rondo begins with the famous theme from Paganini’s “Caprice #24,” reworked into a 5/4 dance with a cool vibe. Woven into the rondo form are three original dances (a tango, a country dance and a waltz) – each a musical adventure of its own. The colorful orchestration by Richard Meyer gives every member of your ensemble an unforgettable and joyful experience while the wide variety of playing styles and musical challenges make “New Chances, New Dances” an imaginative selection – the perfect choice for contest or festival.
Metal Rhythmico by Kirt Mosier, Grade 5
Mosier has done it again! Powerful and vigorous from measure one to the end, the rhythms are patterned after heavy metal rock. Chord structures are rich and complex. The solo violin part is designed to showcase an advanced/professional musician. Audiences will remember this incredible work long after the performance has concluded.
Danse Nègre (from African Suite, Op. 35, No. 4) by Samuel Coleridge-Taylor/arr. Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 5
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor was extraordinary in using themes from African American folk music, and his success contributed to the empowerment of African American musicians and composers who came after him. The final movement from a larger work, this high energy piece is one spectacular example of Coleridge-Taylor’s talent. A perfect concert closer!
Midnight Mischief by Doug Spata, Grade 1
Beginning string students will have a diabolically good time with this all-pizzicato selection. Gleefully sinister melodies pass between all sections and simple quarter and half note accompaniment parts help keep everyone together. The optional piano accompaniment sets the pace with even 8th notes, helping young players subdivide their rhythms. Part independence and note range are minimized while doubling and repetition are emphasized, making this an easy piece for kids to master. “Midnight Mischief” by Doug Spata is a fun piece that kids will love to play while supporting essential ensemble playing and listening skills.
Night Blooming Jasmine by Yukiko Nishimura, Grade 3
With French-inspired harmonies, this elegant piece is written in the style of the siciliano – a pastoral dance or song in 6/8. Like the delicate and sweet fragrance of the flower that opens in the darkness of evening, the theme unfolds gently with cascading chords and gentle, legato phrases. Every section has the opportunity to play with a full and expressive sound, creating the atmosphere of a peaceful garden at twilight.
Carnival Overture by Antonin Dvorák/arr. Carrie Lane Gruselle, Grade 3.5
The energy and excitement of this thrilling overture is exquisitely captured in this approachable setting for intermediate orchestras! Equally suited as an opener or closer (and everything in between!), your students will shine without being pushed too much technically. An incredible balance between the grandeur of the original and the pedagogical needs of students.
Sunday Afternoon by R. Scott Whittington, Grade 2
A whimsical piece that appeals to all ages. Its bouncy rhythms and upbeat melodies evoke the feeling of wind rushing through our hair or the laughter of family members as games are played and memories are shared. The piece is targeted at advancing junior and intermediate string ensembles and works for young and mature players alike. One of the charms of this piece is the constant tug-of-war between triplets and the straight eighth notes. With its lilting, infectious themes, the work is spirited, fun to play, and will be a favorite with audiences and players alike.
Puppet Theater by David Bobrowitz, Grade 2
Puppet theater has a long and varied history, with evidence that it even existed in ancient China. Each part, whether playing pizzicato or arco, gets its turn at playing melodic material, which will motivate students to want to play this piece often. Lively and somewhat whimsical, it’s fun to listen to and fun to play! Piano accompaniment.
Isolation Blues by Susan H. Day, Medium Easy
Written during a long stay at home, this introspective work for string orchestra is charming and boasts a catchy melody too! Students will enjoy the intrigue in all the blue notes.
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About the Authors:
Eric Stratton is the Jazz and Orchestra Specialist at Stanton’s Sheet Music. From Westerville, OH, Eric received a Bachelor of Music in Classical Bass Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies from Otterbein University. On both electric and double bass, he plays in various groups around Columbus, including New Albany Symphony and Westerville Symphony orchestras. He enjoys listening to and playing many types of music, from jazz, pop, to rock and metal. Some of Eric’s favorite performance opportunities are in the pit orchestras of musical theatre productions. When Eric isn’t gigging or at Stanton’s, he enjoys playing video games, hanging out with his cats, performing repair and tech work on guitars, and going to local restaurants and breweries with friends.
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.