Incantations
"Energetic" and "hard-driving" best describe this tour de force for high school orchestra. Two solo violins and a solo viola introduce this piece with a haunting, lyrical theme. The theme is subsequently taken up by the entire orchestra and expanded, gradually morphing into a fast and frenetic second theme that is aggressive and virtuosic in nature. This second theme is developed in an equally vigorous pizzicato section. The [...]
Ninja
There's a ninja on the loose and he's sneaking through the orchestra. But not for long! Your students will love making up storylines for what happens next in this colorful Asian-flavored piece that uses only the notes of the D Major scale. There are plenty of great teaching opportunities here for your first-year students, including pizzicato, accents, crescendos, and melody/accompaniment balance. Fun for everyone! (Program Notes were taken from the publisher) [...]
Rosin Eating Zombies from Outer Space
They're baaaaack! Treat your string orchestra to the sequel of the wildly popular Rosin Eating Zombies from Outer Space. New special effects and a delightful "zombie love theme" are added to this highly original tribute to the monster-movie soundtracks of the 1950s. This sequel is sure to be a favorite of your students and will delight (and terrify!) your audience. This time, listen to what it sounds like [...]
Night Shift
What better way to practice early shifting than with this exciting original work by Richard Meyer. The exciting rhythms and sounds of this creative work will inspire your students to attain new heights of skill and musicianship. First violins and violas use the third position, cellos use the fourth position, while second violins and basses remain in first. (Program Notes were taken from the publisher) Composed by: Richard Meyer Difficulty: Grade [...]
New Projects
I am making great progress on Totality. The piece will be about the US eclipse we had last August. (And one of the most incredible spectacles I've witnessed) Totality will narrate the story of how our ancestors interpreted a total solar eclipse and how we perceive it today. Although procrastination got the best of me this week, I did put a couple of hours to reach the 2 minute mark. I estimate Totality to be around [...]
Impact
A truly powerful concert piece that honors the impact teachers have on the lives of others, this original work is a perfect centerpiece for concert and festival programming. Rhythmically exciting, with great parts for all sections, this is a must-have. (Program Notes were taken from the publisher) Composed by: Bob Philips Difficulty: Grade 3 Duration: 4:30 3rd Violin (Treble Clef Viola): No. Bowings: Yes Publisher: Alfred Music Preview score Buy [...]
SOSMusic Scales Series! for String Orchestra
The SOSMusic Scale Series! Designed to warm-up elementary and intermediate string orchestras. Great for improving intonation and getting students acquainted with tonality. Provide engaging material that pleases the ear and improves musicianship. You will be subscribed to receive future etudes and exercises for String Orchestra. See you on the other side :)!
The Abandoned Funhouse
Written for the true beginner, this piece takes the listener on an eerie tour that can best be described as an unsettling experience with a touch of curiosity and anxiousness. Piano and optional celesta (playable on a keyboard) create a haunting background. (Program Notes were taken from the publisher) Composed by: Brian Balmages Difficulty: Grade 0.5 Duration: 2:00 3rd Violin (Treble Clef Viola): No. (Violin 2 treble clef viola) Bowings: Yes [...]
Daily Warm-Ups for String Orchestra
Buy This Sample the instrumental parts here
