Harp Features for String Orchestra Monday, October 31, 2022
recommended by Maureen Driscoll and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists
Mulholland Elegy by Doug Spata, Grade 3.5
Named after the dark, twisting road that winds through the Hollywood hills, this homage to film noir unfolds like a mystery in the shadowy, stylized world of 1940s Los Angeles. The sweeping and expressive style offers students experience with advanced musicianship skills as well as required shifting and increased part independence. An optional harp part adds to the melodramatic style, making this an ideal contrasting piece in a contest or concert program.
Silent Night arr. Jeremy S. Martin, Grade 3.5
Franz Gruber’s “Silent Night” arranged by Jeremy Martin brings delicate warmth and peace to the holiday season. After a few years of gentle prodding by Lynne Latham to write a string arrangement for the Latham Music catalog, Martin completed this work in 2021. After Lynne passed away unexpectedly in early 2022, Martin dedicated the arrangement to her memory. No eyes will be dry after hearing this lovely rendition, which includes legato lines, harmonic depth, a short solo violin I and II part, and shifting for all voices. Subtle tempo changes will further capture the attention of the audience. “Silent Night” is a must-have for your level 3.5 holiday library and will be requested every year.
Blue Hook by Bud Woodruff, Medium Advanced
“Blue Hook” will stimulate the imaginations of the players and audiences alike. As the music drives through modes, students are “practicing” their hooked bows without realizing they are working. “Blue Hook” includes an optional harp part which adds color to the overall orchestral sound. Between hooked bowings, modal scales, shifting for first violins into fifth position, small shifts for other instruments through fourth position, the students will enjoy creating their own story of what “Blue Hook” is about as they learn or develop the concepts of the piece. Your orchestra will ask to play this piece over and over.
Shop Stanton’s for all your sheet music needs!
About the Authors:
Maureen Driscoll is the Orchestra Music Specialist at Stanton’s Sheet Music. Originally from the Cleveland area, she attended Miami University in Oxford to study Music Education. After graduating in 2017, Maureen spent five years teaching middle and high school orchestra in Cincinnati-area public schools. A lifelong violinist, she likes to perform with community orchestras and play gigs to keep herself busy. When she’s not working or performing, Maureen enjoys exploring nature, playing video games, baking, and spending time with her boyfriend and two cats.
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.