recommended by Eric Stratton and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists

Battle of the Bows by Chris Thomas, Grade 2.5
Experience a contest of strength, bravery, and determination. With constant momentum and energy, the music explores a range of articulations and dynamics as each section competes for supremacy. Bravado, dynamic contrast, independence, and excitement – it is all here and ready to showcase your orchestra!

Percentage of Error by Jeremiah Clarke/arr. Bob Phillips, Grade 1.5
This arrangement of “The Prince of Denmark March,” or “Trumpet Voluntary,” provides the perfect setting for advocacy and striving for excellence since it is so recognizable. Three different versions of the final 8 bars, containing incorrect notes, are included. Each version contains an increasing percentage of correct pitches. Each represents a different letter grade. Play all four versions and then explain to parents and administration that the A+, 100% correct version is what we do every day in orchestra. All sections play the melody in this piece, still providing a solid musical setting in a novelty piece. Audience members are sure to recognize it which makes it perfect for finding “errors.” Along with the “real” music for the final 8 bars, three other versions are included. The first version has 80% of the Correct Notes and 20% incorrect. The next has 90% correct notes and 10% incorrect. The next has 95% correct notes and 5% incorrect. The final, “real” version has 100% correct notes. The 100% version should be played first for the audience explaining this version would get an A+ in an academic setting. Then play the 80% or B- version, then the 90% or A- Version, and then the 95% A version. Then explain to parents and administration that the only version that is acceptable is the 100% version and that is what we do every day in orchestra. This provides a perfect advocacy moment to discuss the benefits of music education with parents and a tangible explanation of striving for excellence to parents and students. Includes an educational packet with each part that features technical exercises, history, theory, composition, and more.

Arco Polo by Ingrid Koller, Grade 1.5-3
This engaging piece for string orchestra is appropriate for any time of the year but is especially fun for a summer orchestra concert. “Arco Polo” is a musical depiction of the well-known swimming-pool game Marco Polo. The piece begins tutti pizzicato, but then the instruments “call out” to each other using their bows. This is a multilevel piece which makes it a practical choice for an orchestra with students at varying skill levels. It can stand alone as a Level 1.5 piece, but with the addition of the advanced violin, viola, and cello parts it becomes even more challenging and fun. For yet another layer of fun, there is an optional improvisational section where students are randomly (perhaps secretly) selected to be the “caller” and the rest of the orchestra answers. As an extra surprise for the orchestra and audience, an audience member can be cued to literally call out to the orchestra.

5th Avenue Rock by Kathryn Griesinger, Grade 0.5
This rocking piece for beginning strings is based on the interval of a perfect fifth – thus the title! Students can practice easy string crossings on open strings, simple rhythms, and stepwise finger patterns. Violin 2 doubles viola and cello doubles bass to build confidence and create a full sound. The piano and drum set fill in during rests, allowing the young orchestra to shine in its very first concert.

Thundersnow by Katie O’Hara LaBrie, Grade 2.5
Imagine being in the midst of a blizzard. Snow swirling and blowing everywhere! Then suddenly, out of nowhere… BOOM! It’s “Thundersnow!” This new work for string orchestra is sure to excite and impress both students and audiences alike!

Molto Perpetuo by David Bobrowitz, Medium Easy
This work for strings has a lot to say and even more opportunities to teach. Delicate bowing considerations will help strengthen legato bowing on the offbeats as well as reinforce staccato and pizzicato. Each section has meaningful material. A useful teaching piece that will sound great in performance too!

Beathoven by Stephen Spottswood, Grade 4
This hip-hop orchestration incorporates technology and should be played with the audio track (mp3 download) and a speaker. “Beathoven” cleverly combines hip-hop and classical styles. The result is a head bopping, rhythm rocking ensemble piece that ebbs and flows between the 18th century and the 21st century. Teachers can focus on syncopated rhythms, the pentatonic scale, playing with a staccato bow stroke, and making a contrast in dynamics.

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About the Authors:
Eric Stratton is the Jazz and Orchestra Specialist at Stanton’s Sheet Music. From Westerville, OH, Eric received a Bachelor of Music in Classical Bass Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Studies from Otterbein University. On both electric and double bass, he plays in various groups around Columbus, including New Albany Symphony and Westerville Symphony orchestras. He enjoys listening to and playing many types of music, from jazz, pop, to rock and metal. Some of Eric’s favorite performance opportunities are in the pit orchestras of musical theatre productions. When Eric isn’t gigging or at Stanton’s, he enjoys playing video games, hanging out with his cats, performing repair and tech work on guitars, and going to local restaurants and breweries with friends.

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.