Ballade for Strings
Lauren Keiser

A major new concert work for strings that will reward any group that plays it, Ballade for Strings is radiantly tuneful and harmonically colorful. The writing is wonderfully expansive and puts one in mind of the great early 20th Century classics of Schoenberg (Verklärte Nacht) and Webern (Langsamer Satz). Each section of the ensemble is given ample opportunity to shine and expressive playing throughout is encouraged. This is a perfect selection with which to showcase a musically sophisticated string orchestra.
Duration: 5'25" Key: D Major
CAS14 ($40.00; 6.00; 2.75)

Columbia River Suite
Doris Gazda

A major work, in three movements, for string orchestra that has been designed to be performed by a more advanced group, but with parts for a younger ensemble as well. This is a colorful and evocative work inspired by the great river that rises in British Columbia, cuts through the state of Washington and forms a border between Oregon and Washington on its way to the sea. Some divisi and tremolo writing is included in the scoring for the more mature players and the final movement (Paddling to the Sea) is in a boisterous 6/8 meter. This is a great showpiece for displaying the results of a developed string program.

• Mvt. 1: Cascades
  Duration: 3' Key: A Minor
• Mvt. 2: Starlight on the Water
  Duration: 2'50" Key: D Major
• Mvt. 3: Paddling to the Sea
  Duration: 2'15" Key: D Minor, D Major

Creepy Classics
Camille Saint-Saëns, Charles Gounod, Edvard Grieg; arranged by Roy Phillippe

The composers of 19th Century, Romantic period of music had a great fascination with the macabre and this medley pays tribute to that interest with excerpts from three celebrated examples. Danse Macabre (Saint-Saëns), Funeral March of a Marionette (Gounod), and In the Hall of the Mountain King from Peer Gynt (Grieg). These well-known selections are expertly arranged, will be delightful to play and are sure to be a hit with the ensemble's audience.

Duration: 3'20" Key: G Minor, D Minor, B Minor
CAS13 ($40.00; 6.00; 2.75)

Dreamchasers
Sean O'Loughlin

Developed from music written for an animated film, this turbulent new piece by Sean O'Loughlin is strikingly original. It introduces the sul ponticello technique and the prevailing minor tonality leads to considerable chromaticism in the string writing. This is a serious and substantial work that young string players will enjoy being challenged by.

Duration: 3'15" Key: A Minor
CAS15 ($40.00; 6.00; 2.75)

Las Posadas (The Search for an Inn)
Traditional Mexican Carol; arranged by Doris Gazda

The richness of Christmas traditions in Mexico is recalled in this warmly scored selection for strings. Doris Gazda's expertise as a writer gives this multicultural piece great credibility. The carol on which Las Posadas is based tells the touching story of Mary and Joseph's search for a place of shelter where Mary can give birth to the baby Jesus. An optional part for piano or harp is included with this wonderful holiday selection.

Duration: 2'45" Key: D Major
CAS11 ($40.00; 6.00; 2.75)

Pavane, Op. 50
Gabriel Fauré; arranged by Larry Clark

Fauré's gorgeous piece (originally for chorus and orchestra) is a sophisticated way to show the polish of a more advanced string ensemble in this sensitive and expert arrangement by Larry Clark. The subtle and elusive melodic appeal of the piece and the refined and delicate scoring make this a fine way to introduce the beauties of the French romantic style to young musicians.

Duration: 5'50" Key: E Minor
CAS16 ($40.00; 6.00; 2.75)

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