Heroes Among Us: Uplifting Titles for Orchestra Wednesday, January 04, 2023
recommended by Maureen Driscoll and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists
Heroes Among Us by Gary Fagan, Grade 3
“Heroes Among Us” by Gary Fagan is an original overture-style work for string orchestra that was inspired by the many people who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure many school children who could not go to school received at least two hot meals each day throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. School bus drivers and cafeteria workers put in long hours to prepare meals and deliver them to students who otherwise may have gone hungry during the week. While teachers, nurses, doctors, etc. received accolades during the months when schools were out of session, many adults stepped in to take care of other necessities to ensure the well-being of the students they served.
Sea of Stars by Liam Ramsey-White, Grade 2.5
The “Sea of Stars” on the island of Vaadhoo in the Maldives is famous for its unique feature of bioluminenscence. As the waves break against the shore, the water turns a sparkling blue, appearing as stars reflected in the water. The opening of this piece imitates the shimmering water as a nostalgic motif is presented by a solo cello over delicate harmonics and tremolo. The piece swells, ebbs, and flows with a beautiful theme that ends as quietly and magically as it started.
Humble Heart by Larry Clark, Grade 2
Anyone who has met Larry knows how humble he is, and while he would never admit it, this piece perfectly reflects the care and consideration he takes with the musical education of young musicians. A wonderfully beautiful work for String Orchestra.
Welcome the Light by Deborah Baker Monday, Grade 3.5
Composer Monday takes listeners on a journey from darkness into light. Facing a struggle that affects us all, the piece starts in place of loneliness and gradually lifts us out of the darkest depths and into shadows, and finally into glorious light. A beautiful and emotional piece that is sure to uplift any audience.
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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.