NEW Solo Features with Orchestra Monday, February 06, 2023
recommended by Maureen Driscoll and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists
Concertino by R. Scott Whittington, Grade 3.5
An intermediate solo in classical style, this concertino by R. Scott Whittington is the perfect vehicle to feature an up-and-coming student. Pleasantly melodic with appealing sequences, it utilizes positions 1 – 6 (highest note B) with a brief section in tenor clef. A flashy but playable cadenza can be taken at liberty to accommodate different ability levels or omitted entirely.
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.
Fantasia on an Original Theme by Liam Ramsey-White, Grade 3
This lyrical original work is based on a theme the composer first wrote at age 12. The melody is first stated in an expressive viola solo, then developed by the rest of the orchestra with dramatic variation in dynamics, tonality, and effusive modal shifts. A nostalgic musical reflection that offers students the opportunity to develop tone, expression, and style in their playing.
Down Easy Street by R. Scott Whittington, Grade 3
“Down Easy Street” is the perfect opportunity to introduce Jazz elements to your classroom in a welcoming and inclusive way! In a relaxed jazzy style, all parts have minimal position work so your ensemble can focus on rhythm, blend, and intonation. Optional drum set adds energy and vitality. A sparkling piece that’s great fun for all!
Shadow Defenders by Katie O’Hara LaBrie, Grade 3
From the first note of this thrilling piece, a sense of suspense feeds an intense desire to protect and avenge, leaving listeners to wonder what is looming around the corner. Let students imagine a world of possibilities in this cinematic work, while developing their skills with independent rhythms, shifting, and interlaced syncopations that propel this journey through the shadows.
Bass Patrol by Timothy J. Isham, Grade 1
Put your bassists in the spotlight in this piece for beginning strings. Build confidence and skills in your bass section as they lead the orchestra while navigating the shift between first and third position. Melodic material in G lydian is shared among all sections, and rhythms are simple and easy to count.
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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.