BACK TO SCHOOL Five Star Features for STRING ORCHESTRA Tuesday, August 27, 2024
recommended by Austin Swack, Instrumental Education Specialist
Mysteria Abyssi by Kirt Mosier, Grade 3.5
“Mysteria Abyissi” was written to evoke the mysteries of the deep as the ethereal scoring takes the listener into the dark areas of the ocean. The optional celesta adds the magical sparkling quality of bioluminescent underwater creatures.
Ariana by Peter Blair, Grade 3
“Ariana” seamlessly blends the beauty of the string orchestra with the captivating harmonies of a jazz ballad. With its lush and expressive melodies this piece will showcase the sophisticated and elegant side of your ensemble.
Prairie Sky by Robert Buckley, Grade 3-4
Let your strings soar through the expanse of the “Prairie Sky” by Robert Buckley. This energetic composition captures the beauty and majesty of open landscapes. With a contrasting slower middle section, lush harmonies, and sweeping syncopated melody, “Prairie Sky” transports performers and audiences alike to the heart of nature’s splendor. Elevate your ensemble’s repertoire with the captivating allure of “Prairie Sky” and create a memorable performance!
Compassion by Rossano Galante, Grade 3
“Compassion” sets the tone for love and loss. Written in memory of Bryan T. Doll Jr., a 14-year-old boy who lost his life. The introduction incorporates a gentle string passage featuring a chordal and cerebral texture. The violins state the main theme, accompanied by lush string harmony. The accompaniment becomes rhythmically busier as the piece develops, incorporating arpeggiations and ostinati. After reaching its climax, the composition concludes just as it began, with quiet and chordal strings, bringing this musical offering to an emotional close. This composition was written to draw attention to and raise awareness about bullying in school.
Fury by Chris M. Bernotas, Grade 2
“Fury” is an exhilarating piece that will excite and energize your intermediate string orchestra. It features angular rhythms, strong melodic lines for all, and intense energy that will keep students on the edge of their seats. Whether played at a contest, as a concert opener or closer, this piece will leave a lasting impression.
Falling Into Starlight by Matt Arnett, Grade 1.5
This beautiful selection provides an opportunity to feature multiple students on short 1 and 2 measure solos that are interwoven into the tapestry of the music. There is a lot of flexibility in how the solos are distributed so you can easily adapt this piece to fit the needs of your ensemble. This is a gem!
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About the Authors:
Austin Swack joined the Stanton’s team after a decade of teaching band in Texas public schools, where his ensembles were consistently recognized for superior performance. He is equally at home with beginner and advanced students and has extensive experience programming for ensembles at all ability levels. Additionally, he is a versatile arranger as well as an experienced clinician and adjudicator. In his free time, Austin enjoys running, cycling, and cheering on the Blue Jackets!