Accolade

Andrew Guarrine

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano

BAS86 - Score and Parts

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An accolade is an award or special honor for a great achievement. This piece for beginning string orchestra showcases newly learned skills, using mostly unison rhythms, stepwise motion, and simple quarter- and half- note rhythms within the range of the D major scale. Violin 2 is doubled with viola and cello doubles bass to build confidence in playing independent parts. Feel the pride of accomplishment in a concert performance to the thunderous accolades of the audience!

A Holiday Remix

Traditional (arr. Kathryn Griesinger)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano, Percussion (Sleigh Bells, Triangle)

BAS87 - Score and Parts

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Mix it up for a fun first winter concert! This mash-up of familiar holiday tunes uses only notes from the D major scale with frequent stepwise motion and no shifting in the bass. With unison quarter note and half note rhythms and simple 3-part harmony, this arrangement will help beginners play with confidence and success. Melodies include Joy to the World, Jingle Bells, Deck the Halls, Good King Wenceslas, and Jolly Old St. Nicholas. Add extra sparkle with optional piano and percussion.

First Star

Lauren Taylor

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano

FAS128 - Score and Parts

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Written as an accessible introduction to 3/4 time, this Grade 1 work offers young ensembles the opportunity to explore basic rhythms, easy voice independence, and notes on the D, G, and A strings with no low-two finger patterns. Pizzicato and simple staccato add sparkle to this elegant theme with subtle hints of the familiar "twinkle" melody. Optional piano lends rhythmic support in this charming concert feature!

Icicles

Todd Parrish

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

FAS129 - Score and Parts

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Feel the frigid chill of winter winds and brittle ice! This original work for young orchestra offers a contemporary sound with approachable quarter- and half-note rhythms and basic stepwise motion. Featuring the cello and bass sections prominently, all notes fall within the range of the D major scale, with a brief metallic sound of violins open E string to depict the steely cold. Set in B minor, close (yet easy) intervals create interesting harmonies that hint at dissonance to represent the bitter cold of frozen ice.

Mystic Fire

Kathryn Griesinger

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

FAS130 - Score and Parts

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An adventurous concert experience for developing orchestras, Mystic Fire uses familiar notes on the D and G string, doubling violin 2 with viola and cello with bass. Easy whole notes and staccato patterns reinforce techniques and rhythms learned in the classroom as students get to practice independent counting. Set in string-friendly E minor, the mysterious theme gives all sections the opportunity to shine.

Nightwatch

Cooper Ford

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano

FAS131 - Score and Parts

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At night, there are many possible dangers that lurk in the dark. With intense energy, this piece depicts the daring determination of protectors who keep watch in the night. The music is energetic and engaging, reinforcing foundational rhythms and techniques including staccato and changing dynamics. Written in three parts with Violin 2 doubling Viola and Cello doubling Bass and optional piano for support, all players will have the opportunity to play melodic material.

Ascension

Sam Gelfer

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano

FAS126 - Score and Parts

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Take your orchestra on a soaring journey with upward rising phrases in this original work for young players. All sections explore the key of B minor with no extended finger patterns in this exciting theme. The first violin section ventures into notes on the E string and all students will get to practice easy hooked bowing. Ascension offers students an adventure in a new key and tonality with a dramatic performance piece.

Eclipse

Caryn Wiegand Neidhold

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano, Drum Set

FAS127 - Score and Parts

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Eclipse is an easy-to-learn rock-style tune that will energize your orchestra and introduce improvisation in a fun setting! With a flexible score including optional violin 2, piano, and drum set, your students can achieve a big, impressive sound. The improv section includes a notated solo option in every part, or students can improv while the rest of the orchestra vamps in the background. A confidence-building showstopper!

Wisteria Waltz

Yukiko Nishimura

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano

FAS132 - Score and Parts

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This waltz-style piece features a gentle melody with unique harmonies to create a tranquil and mysterious mood. Perfect for the developing string orchestra, the simple rhythms are limited to mainly half-notes and quarter-notes, but the beautiful melody and rich countermelodies give the ensemble a mature sound.

Canon Noel

Traditional (arr. Deborah Baker Monday)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS218 - Score and Parts

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Canon Noel combines the iconic Pachelbel theme with graceful melodies from The First Noel and Hark! the Herald Angels Sing. This lyrical setting in D major includes just a little shifting in the bass and easy high-3 finger patterns in violin 2 and viola. Providing a wonderful study in legato playing with slurs in 3/4, the simple scale-based motion and frequent doubling will give the developing ensemble a full, rich sound as all sections get to play melodic material. A beautiful winter concert selection with a classical touch!

A Canterbury Christmas

Traditional (arr. Kathryn Griesinger)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS224 - Score and Parts

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Experience a storybook Christmas with this medley of old English carols. Beginning in 4/4 time, Good King Wenceslas meets 12 Days of Christmas before violas sing O Come, O Come Emmanuel under a pizzicato refrain of God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen. A turn to 3/4 meter brings garlands of Deck the Halls intertwined with The Holly and the Ivy before all parts converge for an joyful rendition of I Saw Three Ships in a bright and festive finale.

Ember Dance

Erica Donahoe

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS219 - Score and Parts

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The smoldering remains of a fire flicker back to life in Ember Dance. This piece is a musical expression of the glowing ashes and sparks that dance through the night air around a fire. This is accomplished with edgy rhythms and snap (Bartok) pizzicato effects. Exaggerated dynamics and precise articulations add energy and interest, allowing all members of the orchestra to sparkle!

Heart of Gold

A Greensleeves Fantasy

Traditional (arr. Nicolas Humberto Repetto)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano

YAS220 - Score and Parts

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Heart of Gold (A Greensleeves Fantasy) is a fresh take on a traditional favorite, drawing its name from the lyrics of the original secular song, “Greensleeves was my delight, Greensleeves was my heart of gold.” The piece starts with an introduction that flows into the familiar poignant melody, using beautiful and unexpected harmonies for a contemporary sound. A solo violin and solo cello restate the melody against a gentle pizzicato accompaniment and the optional piano adds magic and enhances the orchestration throughout.

Resolute

Todd Parrish

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS221 - Score and Parts

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Resolute was composed to celebrate the enduring spirit of those who persevere and overcome difficult challenges with fearless determination. Set in G major, this triumphant theme features a strong, accented melody and energetic accompaniments that frequently utilize double-stops for a resounding effect. The shadows of hardship are heard in a brief shift to E minor before the victorious melody returns with joy that defies darkness with courageous hope. The same way we support each other through trials, many melodies and countermelodies are doubled between sections to portray strength and resolve.

Valkyrie

Liam Ramsey-White

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS223 - Score and Parts

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In Old Norse Valkyrja were noble maidens that brought perished heroes to the afterlife (Valhalla) where they would prepare for Ragnarök. In the beginning of this dramatic piece, the upper and lower strings duel for dominance, setting the scene of an epic battle. The middle section depicts the Valkyries, represented by a lyrical cello melody, descending from the heavens to take their chosen to Valhalla.

Ancient Scottish Air

Gloomy Winter's Noo Awa'

Scottish Folk Song (arr. Seth Bedford)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS225 - Score and Parts

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This plaintive tune was made famous in the film "The Piano." This arrangement offers young players an entrée into the rich breadth of Scottish folk music with a lilting dotted melody that is fun to play. With pizzicato and staccato accompaniments, this lyrical melody is passed around to every section of the orchestra. The lyrics tell of winter’s end giving way to bright flowers of spring, which the singer compares to his darling loved one. While playable in first position, more advanced students may practice playing in higher positions with ringing vibrato.

Chinese Folk Song Suite

Chinese Folk Songs (arr. Chen Yi, ed. Todd Parrish)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS226 - Score and Parts

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Chen Yi’s original "A Set of Chinese Folk Songs" included ten songs first arranged for vocal ensemble. Taken from a wide range of geographic regions in China, the expressive set has been sung by many choirs around the world in the past thirty years. Three songs from that collection have been thoughtfully arranged into a three-movement suite for intermediate string orchestras, bringing this beautiful Chinese folk music to even more young musicians. The celebratory Fengyang Song is from Anhui province, the lyrical love song Flowing Stream is from Yunnan province, and Mayila comes from the ethnic group known as Kazakhs.

Dark Imperium

Aaron Fryklund

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS227 - Score and Parts

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This imperial work smolders with a stately intensity, marching forward with a precise and forceful energy. Set in A minor and 2/4 time, engaging melodic figures unfold with unflinching focus while progressing through sometimes-unexpected harmonies. Students will encounter easy accidentals in first position and interesting counterpoint between the sections as the piece builds to a powerful conclusion.

Festival Fanfare

Kathryn Griesinger

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Violin (Beginning) (opt.), Viola (Beginning) (opt.), Cello (Beginning) (opt.), Contrabass (Beginning) (opt.)

YAS228 - Score and Parts

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Perfect for combined concerts or blended-level ensembles, Festival Fanfare provides a celebration of music where all students can participate. The grade 2.5 piece can be performed alone or with beginning-level parts that use only simple rhythms on open strings or first-finger notes. Set in G major with just a little easy shifting in first violin and bass, the piece features energetic accompaniment patterns and open-string double stops for a big fanfare of sound. A slower middle section introduces a solemn moment of reflection before the joyous theme returns for a grand finale.

March Triumphant

James Lockett

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS229 - Score and Parts

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This victorious-sounding piece for intermediate string orchestra is set in C major with a lot of doubling for a big, majestic sound. The stately theme of March Triumphant provides teaching opportunities for low-4 (violins) and low-one or backward extension finger patterns in a straightforward manner with clear and playable harmonies. The marching staccato accompaniment makes it perfect for graduation or other ceremonies, as well as concert performances throughout the year. Exciting and rewarding for teachers and players!

Rise of the Phoenix

Carlos Lalonde

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS230 - Score and Parts

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The mythical phoenix symbolizes rebirth and rising out of the ashes. This piece explores a rhythmic motive that gains momentum as it develops, then dies away before rising to even greater heights. Set in E minor with D-sharp accidentals, the fiery theme uses accented accompaniments and dramatic dynamics to build intensity. A brief lyrical lull allows players to practice four-note slurs with optional shifting in first violin. Then the opening theme returns with even greater fire, growing to a glorious finale.

Rondeau No. 3

Joseph Bologne (arr. Robert Debbaut)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS222 - Score and Parts

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This lively Rondeau from Bologne's Six String Quartets, Op. 1 is a classic seven-part rondo in G Major, D Major, and G minor. As was typical of the Classical style, the melody is heard mainly in first violin, while other sections provide supporting harmonic and rhythmic roles. The essence of the string quartet scoring is retained by having the bass double the cello part, resulting in a charming and accessible concert selection.

Sonata in G minor

K.315

Domenico Scarlatti (arr. Yukiko Nishimura)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3 (Viola T.C.), Viola, Cello, Contrabass

YAS231 - Score and Parts

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Domenico Scarlatti's Sonata in G minor, K.315 is a simple and elegant work from the Baroque period, featuring a characteristically short two-measure motif. Originally composed for keyboard, this arrangement for string orchestra skillfully works this theme into every section of the ensemble in a variety of ranges as it develops and expands. A wonderful introduction to Baroque style performance featuring staccatos and tenuto articulations and charming melodic counterpoint. The piece can be successfully performed at a slow or faster tempo, according to the ensemble’s ability.

Capriol Dances

Peter Warlock (arr. Caryn Wiegand Neidhold)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

CAS148 - Score and Parts

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Warlock's enigmatic "Capriol Suite" has long been a favorite for orchestra concert and contest events. Two of the most famous movements, Basse-Danse and Mattachins (Sword Dance), are adapted here for intermediate orchestra, allowing younger students to experience the high-energy melodies and unique harmonies of these popular dances. These thoughtfully-arranged pieces work well at a variety of tempi, from moderate to presto, according to the ensemble’s ability. An exciting concert opener or closer!

Falcon Ridge

Austin Isaac

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

CAS149 - Score and Parts

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This exciting piece will help orchestra students soar to new heights! The brisk, consistent tempo will keep all players engaged as they alternate playing the two main themes. Light staccato accompaniments offer the opportunity to practice a brushed bow stroke, and first violin and bass sections will encounter some easy shifting. Accented syncopation with ties across the bar are performed in all sections, perfect for refining subdividing skills. This piece was inspired by the sight of a majestic falcon flying effortlessly over the scenic landscape of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia.

Isle of Destiny

Amy Barlowe

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Side Drum (Bodhrán)

CAS150 - Score and Parts

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Magical Ireland has been the setting for countless captivating adventures in literature, art, film, and music. Isle of Destiny will lead your students to the edge of their musical imagination. From the proud Celtic heartbeat of the bodhran (Celtic drum), to the heartfelt and noble middle section, this uplifting 6/8 piece for intermediate orchestra will be an enchanting journey for all.

Labyrinth

Christian A. Williams

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

CAS152 - Score and Parts

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Follow the twists and turns of this eerie dance through a dark maze of shadows. In this danse macabre style waltz, phantoms and whispers haunt every turn as the E minor melody steps down a creepy chromatic staircase. Students will experience unexpected accidentals, sneaky pizzicato, and a variety of bowing patterns that alternate from tip-toe staccato to slurred run-for-your-life phrases that accelerate toward a finale that descends into madness!

Nordic Voyage

Erica Donahoe

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

CAS153 - Score and Parts

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This exiting 6/8 piece conveys the daring adventures of voyages during the Viking Age, sailing aboard Norse longships in the Baltic Sea. This heavy, accented melody uses frequent doubling between sections for a full hearty sound. The bowings and articulations throughout this piece create energy and drama, with first violin, bass, and cello venturing briefly out of first position. Players will feel the rhythmic pull of 3 against 2 in places, driving the piece forward with momentous energy, exploring new worlds of music!

The Winter King

Doug Spata

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

CAS154 - Score and Parts

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Bold, brisk melodies describe thrilling adventures in The Winter King, an exciting concert overture in D minor! Intermediate-level players will enjoy the vivid and expressive style, but the real focus is on triple-meter rhythms and hooked bowings as players experience a variety of common 6/8 rhythms. Students will get to work on increasing part independence and balance within the ensemble. Perfect for winter concerts, or any time of year.

La Bella Cubana

José White Lafitte (arr. Robert Debbaut)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

CAS151 - Score and Parts

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Joseph (José) White Lafitte studied violin and composition at the Paris Conservatory between 1855 and 1871, winning the 1856 First Grand Prize. He eventually became a French citizen in 1870, leaving Paris only for a period of time between 1877 to 1889 when he was director of the Imperial Conservatory in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. White composed mainly for his own instrument, which happened to be the famous 1737 "Swansong" Stradivari violin.  In addition to numerous etudes and a virtuosic violin concerto, White wrote this habanera for two violins, La Bella Cubana. In this string orchestra arrangement, the lyrical melodic solos are spread throughout the orchestra. Traditional Cuban dance rhythms in the contrasting middle theme capture the vibrant joy of the original work.

Resplendence

Liam Ramsey-White

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

CAS155 - Score and Parts

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Resplendence is an exclamation of joy and serves as the fanfare for a glorious return. Written as Covid-19 restrictions lessened and orchestras once again took to the stage, this uplifting work celebrates a return to normalcy. A joyous theme in G major briefly moves into E-flat major, developing the motif through modal shifts and expanding accompaniments. Variations in the relative minor build to a spectacular climax, driving the accelerating melody to a triumphant conclusion. Colorful with ever changing textures and lyrical melodies, the work embodies the emotions of people rediscovering the joy of being together, and of playing music together.

A Can-Can Festival

for Multi-Level String or Full Orchestra

Jacques Offenbach (arr. Todd Parrish)

Carl Fischer Music

Flute 1, Flute 2, Oboe 1, Oboe 2, Clarinet 1 in Bb, Clarinet 2 in Bb, Bassoon 1, Bassoon 2, Trumpet 1 in Bb, Trumpet 2 in Bb, Horn 1 in F, Horn 2 in F, Horn 3 in F, Horn 4 in F, Trombone 1, Trombone 2, Trombone 3, Tuba, Timpani, Percussion, Violin (Beg.), Viola (Beg.), Cello (Beg.), Contrabass (Beg.), Violin 1 (Int.), Violin 2 (Int.), Viola (Int.), Cello (Int.), Contrabass (Int.), Violin 1 (Adv.), Violin 2 (Adv.), Viola (Adv.), Violoncello (Adv.), Contrabass (Adv.)

MAS1 - Score and Parts

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In this multi-level arrangement for string or full orchestra, both new and experienced students get to enjoy the excitement of Offenbach's lively dance. This abbreviated rendition captures the energy of the familiar melody, allowing players at every ability level to play the tune most beginners will know from their method books. The piece can be performed with strings only, with parts for beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. Or, add optional advanced wind, brass, and percussion parts for a full orchestra concert- combined levels or advanced players only. The perfect grand finale to your pyramid concert that will motivate young musicians with a great sense of pride and accomplishment!

Tectonic Shift

Sam Gelfer

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

SAS10 - Score and Parts

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Tectonic Shift refers to Pangea – the supercontinent that geologists believe shifted over time due to plate tectonics, leaving us with the land masses of today. This spirited work for string orchestra depicts this epic earth-shattering event with a dynamic explosion of sound and rhythm. Set in 7/8 time, the contemporary motif will challenge each section rhythmically and melodically. As suggested by the title, all sections have the opportunity to practice shifting as well. Riffing on the “tonic” of D minor, the bass section is featured with a soli section that drives the momentum of this energizing piece. Electrifying!

Map's End

Caryn Wiegand Neidhold

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass

SAS11 - Score and Parts

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In what can be described as Game of Thrones meets thunderous Brahms, this tour de force for advanced string orchestra features a driving theme set in 12/8 meter. The lyrical middle section features cello and bass soli with delicate harmonics and a lush, sweeping countermelody in upper voices before returning to the opening theme for an aggressive ride to a victorious finale. Lush textures, gorgeous harmonies, and powerful motifs offer the ambitious orchestra an unforgettable adventure, both challenging and immensely rewarding.

Symphony No. 2

Finale

Emilie Mayer (arr. Lauren Taylor)

Carl Fischer Music

Violin 1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Timpani

SAS9 - Score and Parts

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A rare transcription of the extraordinary music of German composer Emilie Mayer (1812-1883). While most of her compositions remained unpublished at the time of her death, Mayer's works were acclaimed in Germany and she toured frequently performing her music, an unheard of practice for a single woman at the time. This stormy final movement from her second symphony reveals Mayer's bold and confident style. Arranged for string orchestra and timpani, this movement was painstakingly drawn from the handwritten score, offering a profound opportunity for students to experience the music of this incredible composer for the first time.