Winter Stars: Especially for String Orchestra Friday, November 18, 2022
recommended by Maureen Driscoll and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists
Winter Stars by Kathryn Griesinger, Grade 2
This Grade 2 original work was inspired by the tender poem of the same name by Sara Teasdale. Gentle phrases capture the wistful hope the poet felt as she contemplated the steadfast stars that “burn steadily as long ago” even as the world changed below. Lyrical melodies provide developing players opportunities to work on tone, slurs, and expressive playing with one easy key change from D major to G major. A tranquil winter concert selection that evokes images of shimmering stars in the cold December night sky.
A Cold Winter’s Night arr. Erica Donahoe, Grade 2.5
This elegant arrangement blends the familiar Christmas carols “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” and “The First Noel.” The melody is passed to all sections of the orchestra with delicate pizzicato accompaniments, giving developing players the opportunity to work on slurs, dotted rhythms, legato phrasing, and tone production in the key of C major. This peaceful setting will be a wonderful addition to your winter concert.
A Joyous Sleigh Ride by G.F. Handel/arr. Anthony Susi/ed. J. Cameron Law, Grade 3
Guaranteed to delight your performers and audience alike, this rousing arrangement of “Joy to the World” is combined with an original American hoe-down-style tune, providing a fresh setting of this popular carol. The optional tambourine and sleigh bell parts add to the intended lively flavor.
The Sleigh Ride (from 3 German Dances, K. 605) by W.A. Mozart/arr. Ken Selden, Grade 2.5
A fun, short, and light selection for the developing String Orchestra by one of the most famous composers of all time. Ken Selden’s setting of this piano original sounds great, and your Orchestra will too!
Carol of the Rising Bells arr. Tyler Arcari, Grade 2
Open your next holiday concert with this impactful and clever pairing of two folk tunes: “House of the Rising Sun” and “Ukrainian Bell Carol.” It begins ominously and proceeds to combine both tunes in a special way. Arranged for developing orchestra, this is sure to add something unique to your winter program.
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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.