SKU: CF.YAS52

ISBN 9780825863608. UPC: 798408063603. 8.5 X 11 inches. Key: D major.

This is a striking and original piece that builds interest and momentum using a four note cello and bass ostinato. Arco and pizzicato contrasts of texture and off-beat accents and rhythms sustain interest in this unusual selection, which puts minimal musical resources to maximum use.
A Road Less Traveled is a musical journey based on four notes. The cellos and basses provide these notes in mm. 2 and 3. The piece explores some new compositional techniques for me, and in some sections can be considered minimalist. However, I constructed the piece in a very accessible manner. The individual rhythms create new composite rhythms when played together. It has a unique clockwork quality to it. The music morphs from arco to pizzicato at m. 49. The odd accents bring out some of the quirky quality to the music. A return to arco playing at m. 94 provides a recapitulation of the opening section. Upon return, some of the punchy music now becomes sustained for a dramatic climax. This piece was a real joy to work on, and illustrates “a road less traveled” in my compositional career.

About Carl Fischer Young String Orchestra Series

This series of Grade 2/Grade 2.5 pieces is designed for second and third year ensembles. The pieces in this series are characterized by:
--Occasionally extending to third position
--Keys carefully considered for appropriate difficulty
--Addition of separate 2nd violin and viola parts
--Viola T.C. part included
--Increase in independence of parts over beginning levels

SKU: FJ.ST6486

UPC: 241444402634. English.

This four-movement suite is based on French folk songs and was specifically written for groups that may not be ready for St. Paul's Suite or Capriol Suite, but still want to be able to dig into a substantial piece. In addition to the variety of styles, keys and time signatures, the last movement playfully pays homage to Holst's The Dargason. A fabulous addition to the repertoire!

About FJH String Orchestra

More emphasis on bow technique and independence of lines. For the accomplished middle, high school, college, or professional group. Grade 3 and up

SKU: VD.ED13878

ISBN 9790202028780. 12 x 9 inches.