SKU: CF.BAS88

ISBN 9781491164730. UPC: 680160923649. Key: G major.

Using just 6 notes, Arco Echo explores G major in first position using only easy quarter- and half-note rhythms. A smooth detaché call-and-response between upper and lower string sections will help young students learn to listen across the ensemble, building confidence in simple three-part harmony with doubled Violin 2/Viola and doubled Cello/Bass. Optional piano is included for additional support, making this a fun first venture into independent counting.
Arco Echo is a lighthearted piece for beginning string orchestra. It falls within the range of the first-year player. Young musicians can work on basic detaché bowing skills with a nice mix of half- and quarter-note rhythms, including some rests and minimal dynamic changes. All of the sections get a chance to play parts of the melody with an echo game of call-and-response between upper and lower string sections. The harmonies are very clear and direct, resulting in a solid concert selection that will give the young orchestra a big, confident sound.

About Carl Fischer Beginning String Orchestra Series

This series of Grade 1 pieces is designed for first year string groups. The pieces in this series are characterized by:

• Limited parts (often 2nd violin and viola are the same part, cello and bass are same part)
• Limited keys and rhythms - only simple 8th note patterns
• Limited independence of parts
• Playable after limited study time
• First position and natural bowings
• Piano for rehearsal and reinforcement

SKU: CF.FAS133F

ISBN 9781491165164. UPC: 680160924073. Key: D major.

Written within the range of the D major scale, this adventurous piece uses only quarter, half, and whole notes. Frequent unison rhythms will help young players build confidence as they venture into independent harmonic lines and expanding dynamic range. With Violin 2 doubling Viola and Cello doubling Bass, the simple scoring and scale-based passages will give even a small ensemble a big, full sound.  Melodic material is passed to all sections and players can practice maintaining a steady tempo during a brief pizzicato section.  Have fun exploring!