https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LgROOI-A0sc


Downton Abbey was a much loved TV series that ran for six seasons capturing the hearts of many across the world. The composer of the music, John Lunn, won two Primetime Emmys for the hauntingly beautiful score. I have arranged this wonderful piece for quartet/string orchestra, as well as for violin and piano, and cello and piano, and will probably do so again for other instruments. Make sure that you listen to the clip as well as watch the video, as the clip has been mastered since recording.

Technically, this quartet can be performed by professionals or by quite young players. There are lots of opportunities for open strings and easy positions, and experienced players can explore more complex positions with full vibrato. However, the triplets in the inner parts will need an extremely tight touch if the piece is not to sag and slow down! Perhaps younger players could try the triplets three to a bow. Cellists will need some fourth position at bars 16 and 18. If this is tricky, play bar 16 in first position and shorten the third beat of bar 16 from a previous dotted crotchet to a quaver. In bar 18 it is not possible to play this note an octave down though, as it needs to be above the viola here. First violins can change the bow whenever it runs out on the long notes eg Bars 11-13. Capriccio Quartet take a fast tempo here too, but younger players could slow it down considerably. I would love to hear this done by a string orchestra, so let me know if you perform it. I can be found very easily on Facebook

String Quartet // Digital Download // Intermediate // Advanced // Special Effects // Extended Techniques // Banging Tune Vibes

I bloody love this song. Reminds me of teenage-hood!

BALANCED ARRANGEMENT FOR CONCERT PERFORMANCE (or weddings/events etc.) + also an option to Record this arrangement (remotely if you're still in lockdown!)

Song played as per the original track. 'Heterophonic' Violins (play in Unison, but please vary your sound a bit from each other, to give it a jangly sound). I made this for Remote Recording, so the pull-up at the end is written out rhythmically. Saves any problems arising in rehearsal/performance in real life anyway, so thought i'd leave it in!
*I EVEN WROTE IN THE CAR SCREECH IN THE SECOND VERSE*
Interesting inner parts as per usual. Couple of nasty triple stops in the Viola. Have fun!

"Rather Be" was released as a single from Clean Bandit's first studio album in 2014, and it quickly became a huge hit, reaching number one on the Billboard charts in 12 countries and selling enough copies to get certified triple platinum. So you really can't go wrong having this one in your gig books! This Cellobat arrangement for string quartet brings to life the bouncy EDM beat, staccato string figures, soaring melodies, and lush harmonies of the original song for a fun and energetic chart that's just as much fun to play as it is to listen to! Originally commissioned for a wedding recessional, this chart will also be perfect for receptions, cocktail hour, pop concerts, parties, or any other occasion that you need to get your audience dancing. Rated advanced for some complicated rhythms throughout that go by pretty fast -- I definitely recommend running through this one or getting familiar with the original before performing.

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas by Meredith Wilson, arranged for string trio (with optional violin 2 or viola) by Alison Gillies.

Watch: https://youtu.be/SBac0i0WBlE and#65279;

Written in 1951, this song has been a hit for Perry Como, Harry Connick Jnr. and Michael Bubl�, among others. This arrangement for string quartet has plenty of interest for all players, with lots of light running triplet movement throughout.