Various Levels for String Orchestra
and
FULL ORCHESTRA
Grade .5
Pizzicato Holidays - Grade .5 Using only the first six notes of D major and easy rhythms, Pizzicato Holidays, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, is perfect for beginning string students' first concert. The introduction and ending bookends include a hint of "O Christmas Tree," along with "Up on the Housetop"; "The Dreydl Song;" "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen"; and "Auld Lang Syne." All sections play the melody in turn and have interesting parts throughout. Violin 2 and viola are doubled, as are cello and string bass. A simple sleigh bell part is included but optional. A wonderful selection to ring in the holidays! (2:25)
Check it out here.
Ghosts and Goblins - Creepy, crawly, spooky, and scary -- this fun piece has it all! Ghosts and Goblins, by Chris M. Bernotas, is based on the first 6 notes of the D major scale, but in the Dorian mode. Perfect for your students first concert. Violin 2 and viola are doubled, as are cello and string bass. Simple but engaging, with pizzicato, arco, and just a few dynamics so students can focus on getting the finger patterns and rhythms correct. This is a great addition to the very beginning string orchestra library.
Check it out here.
Grade 1
Anaconda - Grade 1.5 The most common anaconda snake is the Green Anaconda, and it is the most massive snake in the world! Anaconda by Chris Bernotas reflects that powerful snake in musical form. The rhythms drive forward with an intense melody characterizing the strength of the enormous creature. The pizzicato section is reflective of the anaconda as it stealthily makes its way through a swamp or river---be on guard! Correlated to Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Book 1, Level 5. (2:15)
Check it out here.
Dolce - Grade 1.5 Dolce by Chris M. Bernotas will make your young string orchestra sound full and mature. Smooth flowing melodies and rich harmonies are presented to all sections of the orchestra. Featuring a variety of dynamics, this piece will provide a wonderful opportunity to teach phrasing to your students. Dolce, which means sweet, is the perfect selection for any concert setting.
Check it out here.
Jingle Bell Rock - Grade 1.5 Rock the holiday season with the fresh arrangement of this timeless classic. The melody is shared among all instruments and provides a wonderful opportunity to work on swinging eighth notes. True to the original, Chris Bernotas' arrangement of Jingle Bell Rock is accessible for your string orchestra---invite your audience to sing along! (2:10)
Check it out here.
Puttin on the Pizz - Grade 1 Puttin' on the Pizz by Chris Bernotas is sure to become a favorite selection of students and directors. The descending bass line sets the stage for this fun piece. All notes stay in first position and the string orchestra plays pizzicato throughout. Students also have the chance to act as the percussion section. With the optional use of 'swinging' eighth notes, Puttin' on the Pizz could be a fun way to introduce a jazzy style to the string orchestra. Everyone in the audience (and in the orchestra) will be tapping their toes to this piece. Violin 2 and Viola are doubled, as are Cello and String Bass, which will work perfectly for younger string orchestras. Correlated to Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Book 1, Level 4.
Check it out here.
Pizzicato Parade - Pizzicato Parade by Chris M. Bernotas is a delightful march that allows all students in the orchestra to have a chance to shine while developing their pizzicato and rhythmic skills. Approachable challenges and fun interaction between the parts will make this piece enjoyable to teach and learn.
Check it out here.
Robot Factory - Grade 1 Special effects, pizzicato, and a variety of dynamics will make Robot Factory by Chris M. Bernotas exciting for your beginning orchestra students. The key of E minor provides a dark sound, and all sections get to play the energetic melody! This piece will be a great feature or perfect closer to any contest or concert. Correlated to Sound Innovations from String Orchestra, Book 1, Level 4.
Check it out here.
Chasing Dreams- Grade 1.5 With its energetic rhythms and soaring melodies, Chasing Dreams, by Chris M. Bernotas, brings your string players into a world of imagination and wonder. This uplifting work empowers students to embrace their passions and discover the joy of following their dreams. All sections have melodic features. This is an exciting opener or closer and perfect for concert and contest. (2:00)
Check it out here.
Strings of Fire- Ignite the stage with Strings of Fire by Chris M. Bernotas! This exhilarating piece for string orchestra is a nonstop inferno, fueled by relentless eighth notes that propel the ensemble forward. A fiery main theme, all sharp angles and raw energy, clashes with sections of smooth legato, creating a captivating contrast. Every section gets its moment to blaze, with the low strings emerging from the depths to unleash their own powerful melodies in this thrilling piece. A guaranteed showstopper for your next concert!
Check it out here.www.alfred.com/strings-of-fire/p/00-51741/
Winter Sleigh Ride- Embark on a musical adventure through a winter wonderland! Winter Sleigh Ride, by Chris M. Bernotas, captures the thrill of a sleigh ride with its light, energetic feel and easy syncopation. The optional sleigh bell part adds a touch of festive cheer, while the delightful melodies and engaging parts for all make it perfect for your winter concert.
Check it out here.
Grade 2
Ablaze - Grade 2.5 This fierce concert piece takes the orchestra on an exciting musical journey. Students will be challenged to perform with various emotional styles, including both intense and legato melodies.
Check it out here.
Catchy Song - Grade 2.5 Another great hit from The LEGO® Movies! Sure to please audiences and players, this infectious tune with a terrific groove is designed to get stuck in your head. Arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, Catchy Song is from The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part.
Check it out here.
Dancing Kites - Grade 2 This gentle piece will float around your performance hall. With a light, memorable melody and rich harmonies, Dancing Kites, an original composition by Chris Bernotas, will expose your students to musical subtleties and nuance, developing their abilities to perform in a lyrical style. They will love performing this piece. Correlates to Sound Innovations Book 2 level 2.
Check it out here.
Fury - Grade 2 is an exhilarating piece that will excite and energize your intermediate string orchestra. It features angular rhythms, strong melodic lines for all, and intense energy that will keep students on the edge of their seats. Whether played at a contest, as a concert opener or closer, this piece will leave a lasting impression. (2:35) Correlates to Sound Innovations, Book 1, Level 4.
Check it out here.
Heavy Lifting - Grade 2 Your cello and string bass sections take center stage in this rockin' piece by Chris M. Bernotas. Heavy Lifting is a driving, hard-rock selection that gives everyone in the orchestra the opportunity to shine while highlighting the low strings. With FLEX parts available as a free download, this cello and string bass feature can highlight any instrument or group of instruments in the string orchestra. Perfect for your second-year players! (3:00) Correlates to Sound Innovations, Book 2, Level 2.
Check it out here.
Hoedown at the Holidays - Grade 2.5 This piece will get you ready to saddle up for the Christmas rush. Two familiar tunes, "Silent Night" and "Joy to the World," are set with a fun, western flair. "Silent Night" features the use of portamento as a special effect, bringing the cowboy swagger to your string orchestra. The excitement picks up with a faster tempo and upbeat rhythms for the hoedown treatment of "Joy to the World." Once your students play this one they will want to sit by the fireplace and swap their favorite Christmas stories! (Correlates with Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Book 2, level 2).
Check it out here.
Resilience - Grade 2 If there is one thing music educators are it is resilient! Resilience, by Chris M. Bernotas, is dedicated to all music educators in recognition of how they always adapt to the unknown and rise to every challenge. This overture is the perfect concert opener for your first-year string orchestra. Using only the notes in the key of D, and melodic parts for all, every student will shine. Violin 2 and Viola are doubled, as are Cello and String Bass, making it very flexible and perfect for any mix of instruments. Correlated to Sound Innovations, Book 2, Level 2. (1:40)
Check it out here.
Sparks - Grade 2 Light up the concert hall with energy and excitement! A variety of textures and techniques are featured while everyone in the string orchestra has an important role. Well suited as a concert closer or festival piece, your students will want to play this one again and again.
Check it out here.
Wind Dancer - Grade 2 With its optimistic and light sound, Wind Dancer is a great concert choice! Use your imagination and create your own story to accompany the melodic and rhythmic themes in the piece. Every section has an opportunity to shine, and a pizzicato section adds to the charm.
Check it out here.
Grade 3
It Takes Two - Grade 3 This appealing tango is full of drama and passion, with an aggressive, dark theme and strong rhythm. Each member of the ensemble gets a moment in the spotlight and will surely enjoy achieving the challenges of their part.
Check it out here.
The Reel Deal - Grade 3 - The Reel Deal by Chris M. Bernotas will be one of your students' favorite pieces. This original reel lies well in the key of D major. Surprising harmonies add to originality of this piece. All of the instruments get a chance to play the melody, and clear fingerings and bowings have been added throughout. The optional cajon creates an authentic Irish feel. A perfect closer to any festival or concert!
Check it out here.
FULL ORCHESTRA
Blue Tango - Grade 3.5 Brilliantly scored and in a friendly key, "Blue Tango" by Leroy Anderson, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, will highlight your symphony orchestra in any concert or festival. This classic reached the top of the Billboard charts in the early 1950s and will be a favorite for both your students and audience. Closely arranged to the original, the beautiful melodies, full range of dynamics, and clearly marked articulations will provide excellent teaching moments and exciting performances.
Check it out here.
Field Day - Grade 1.5 Your students will have a field day filled with fun as they perform this exciting overture! Field Day, by Chris M. Bernotas, works perfectly for string orchestra alone or with added winds and percussion up to a full orchestra. A fantastic piece for your students' first full-orchestra experience. (2:50)
Check it out here.
A Hanukkah Festival - Grade 3.5 A Hanukkah Festival, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, is a medley of three traditional Hanukkah songs, "Sevivon," "Maoz Tzur," and "Hanukkah." "Sevivon" has a dramatic melody and is written with a variety of accompaniment leading to a brief, but impressive, clarinet cadenza (cued in violin 1) that leads into "Maoz Tzur." This traditional piece is scored with full, rich voicings along with the beautiful melody. "Hanukkah" is the festival of lights and the last section of the piece. It is a bright playful march with an exciting conclusion. A Hanukkah Festival is filled with memorable tunes that students and audiences will enjoy while paying homage to this important holiday. Sure to become a staple in the literature.
Check it out here.
Peer Gynt Suite No.1, Op.46 - Grade 3 A stunning arrangement of the incredible masterwork Peer Gynt Suite No.1, Op. 46! It is perfect for string orchestra alone, or with added instruments up to a full orchestra. This setting, by Chris M. Bernotas, offers the opportunity to explore the entire suite. All four movements are presented in approachable keys and are abridged to the perfect length and difficulty level for your next concert. (5:30)
Check it out here.
Theme from Swan Lake - Grade 2.5 Chris M. Bernotas has provided a fantastic arrangement of one of the most beautiful Tchaikovsky themes from Swan Lake, Op. 20a, No. 1 Scène. This arrangement will work perfectly for your string orchestra alone or with added winds and percussion up to a full orchestra. This hauntingly beautiful and powerful piece has many opportunities for students to develop their phrasing, tremolo, dynamic contrasts, and rhythmic understanding. (2:40)
Check it out here.
Themes from March Slav - Grade 3 Your symphony orchestra will love March Slav by Piotr Ilych Tchaikovsky, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas. Scored for full orchestra or strings only, this arrangement features great themes and a big full symphonic sound. Featuring a reduced number of wind parts to allow for maximum accessibility for a younger full orchestra, this iconic march is a great way to introduce your students to the music of Tchaikovsky. Truly a wonderful choice for a departmental collaboration or any festival or contest.
Check it out here.
Two Puccini Arias - Grade 3.5 Two Puccini Arias, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, includes "O Mio Babbino Caro" and "Nessun Dorma," two of the composer's most beloved arias. This breathtaking full orchestra arrangement is equally effective for string orchestra alone or with added winds and percussion. There is a brief violin solo in "O Mio Babbino Caro" and an expressive cello solo in "Nessun Dorma." Experience captivating melodies and Puccini's operatic brilliance. (4:25)
Check it out here.
Pizzicato Holidays - Grade .5 Using only the first six notes of D major and easy rhythms, Pizzicato Holidays, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, is perfect for beginning string students' first concert. The introduction and ending bookends include a hint of "O Christmas Tree," along with "Up on the Housetop"; "The Dreydl Song;" "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen"; and "Auld Lang Syne." All sections play the melody in turn and have interesting parts throughout. Violin 2 and viola are doubled, as are cello and string bass. A simple sleigh bell part is included but optional. A wonderful selection to ring in the holidays! (2:25)
Check it out here.
Ghosts and Goblins - Creepy, crawly, spooky, and scary -- this fun piece has it all! Ghosts and Goblins, by Chris M. Bernotas, is based on the first 6 notes of the D major scale, but in the Dorian mode. Perfect for your students first concert. Violin 2 and viola are doubled, as are cello and string bass. Simple but engaging, with pizzicato, arco, and just a few dynamics so students can focus on getting the finger patterns and rhythms correct. This is a great addition to the very beginning string orchestra library.
Check it out here.
Grade 1
Anaconda - Grade 1.5 The most common anaconda snake is the Green Anaconda, and it is the most massive snake in the world! Anaconda by Chris Bernotas reflects that powerful snake in musical form. The rhythms drive forward with an intense melody characterizing the strength of the enormous creature. The pizzicato section is reflective of the anaconda as it stealthily makes its way through a swamp or river---be on guard! Correlated to Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Book 1, Level 5. (2:15)
Check it out here.
Dolce - Grade 1.5 Dolce by Chris M. Bernotas will make your young string orchestra sound full and mature. Smooth flowing melodies and rich harmonies are presented to all sections of the orchestra. Featuring a variety of dynamics, this piece will provide a wonderful opportunity to teach phrasing to your students. Dolce, which means sweet, is the perfect selection for any concert setting.
Check it out here.
Jingle Bell Rock - Grade 1.5 Rock the holiday season with the fresh arrangement of this timeless classic. The melody is shared among all instruments and provides a wonderful opportunity to work on swinging eighth notes. True to the original, Chris Bernotas' arrangement of Jingle Bell Rock is accessible for your string orchestra---invite your audience to sing along! (2:10)
Check it out here.
Puttin on the Pizz - Grade 1 Puttin' on the Pizz by Chris Bernotas is sure to become a favorite selection of students and directors. The descending bass line sets the stage for this fun piece. All notes stay in first position and the string orchestra plays pizzicato throughout. Students also have the chance to act as the percussion section. With the optional use of 'swinging' eighth notes, Puttin' on the Pizz could be a fun way to introduce a jazzy style to the string orchestra. Everyone in the audience (and in the orchestra) will be tapping their toes to this piece. Violin 2 and Viola are doubled, as are Cello and String Bass, which will work perfectly for younger string orchestras. Correlated to Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Book 1, Level 4.
Check it out here.
Pizzicato Parade - Pizzicato Parade by Chris M. Bernotas is a delightful march that allows all students in the orchestra to have a chance to shine while developing their pizzicato and rhythmic skills. Approachable challenges and fun interaction between the parts will make this piece enjoyable to teach and learn.
Check it out here.
Robot Factory - Grade 1 Special effects, pizzicato, and a variety of dynamics will make Robot Factory by Chris M. Bernotas exciting for your beginning orchestra students. The key of E minor provides a dark sound, and all sections get to play the energetic melody! This piece will be a great feature or perfect closer to any contest or concert. Correlated to Sound Innovations from String Orchestra, Book 1, Level 4.
Check it out here.
Chasing Dreams- Grade 1.5 With its energetic rhythms and soaring melodies, Chasing Dreams, by Chris M. Bernotas, brings your string players into a world of imagination and wonder. This uplifting work empowers students to embrace their passions and discover the joy of following their dreams. All sections have melodic features. This is an exciting opener or closer and perfect for concert and contest. (2:00)
Check it out here.
Strings of Fire- Ignite the stage with Strings of Fire by Chris M. Bernotas! This exhilarating piece for string orchestra is a nonstop inferno, fueled by relentless eighth notes that propel the ensemble forward. A fiery main theme, all sharp angles and raw energy, clashes with sections of smooth legato, creating a captivating contrast. Every section gets its moment to blaze, with the low strings emerging from the depths to unleash their own powerful melodies in this thrilling piece. A guaranteed showstopper for your next concert!
Check it out here.www.alfred.com/strings-of-fire/p/00-51741/
Winter Sleigh Ride- Embark on a musical adventure through a winter wonderland! Winter Sleigh Ride, by Chris M. Bernotas, captures the thrill of a sleigh ride with its light, energetic feel and easy syncopation. The optional sleigh bell part adds a touch of festive cheer, while the delightful melodies and engaging parts for all make it perfect for your winter concert.
Check it out here.
Grade 2
Ablaze - Grade 2.5 This fierce concert piece takes the orchestra on an exciting musical journey. Students will be challenged to perform with various emotional styles, including both intense and legato melodies.
Check it out here.
Catchy Song - Grade 2.5 Another great hit from The LEGO® Movies! Sure to please audiences and players, this infectious tune with a terrific groove is designed to get stuck in your head. Arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, Catchy Song is from The LEGO® Movie 2: The Second Part.
Check it out here.
Dancing Kites - Grade 2 This gentle piece will float around your performance hall. With a light, memorable melody and rich harmonies, Dancing Kites, an original composition by Chris Bernotas, will expose your students to musical subtleties and nuance, developing their abilities to perform in a lyrical style. They will love performing this piece. Correlates to Sound Innovations Book 2 level 2.
Check it out here.
Fury - Grade 2 is an exhilarating piece that will excite and energize your intermediate string orchestra. It features angular rhythms, strong melodic lines for all, and intense energy that will keep students on the edge of their seats. Whether played at a contest, as a concert opener or closer, this piece will leave a lasting impression. (2:35) Correlates to Sound Innovations, Book 1, Level 4.
Check it out here.
Heavy Lifting - Grade 2 Your cello and string bass sections take center stage in this rockin' piece by Chris M. Bernotas. Heavy Lifting is a driving, hard-rock selection that gives everyone in the orchestra the opportunity to shine while highlighting the low strings. With FLEX parts available as a free download, this cello and string bass feature can highlight any instrument or group of instruments in the string orchestra. Perfect for your second-year players! (3:00) Correlates to Sound Innovations, Book 2, Level 2.
Check it out here.
Hoedown at the Holidays - Grade 2.5 This piece will get you ready to saddle up for the Christmas rush. Two familiar tunes, "Silent Night" and "Joy to the World," are set with a fun, western flair. "Silent Night" features the use of portamento as a special effect, bringing the cowboy swagger to your string orchestra. The excitement picks up with a faster tempo and upbeat rhythms for the hoedown treatment of "Joy to the World." Once your students play this one they will want to sit by the fireplace and swap their favorite Christmas stories! (Correlates with Sound Innovations for String Orchestra, Book 2, level 2).
Check it out here.
Resilience - Grade 2 If there is one thing music educators are it is resilient! Resilience, by Chris M. Bernotas, is dedicated to all music educators in recognition of how they always adapt to the unknown and rise to every challenge. This overture is the perfect concert opener for your first-year string orchestra. Using only the notes in the key of D, and melodic parts for all, every student will shine. Violin 2 and Viola are doubled, as are Cello and String Bass, making it very flexible and perfect for any mix of instruments. Correlated to Sound Innovations, Book 2, Level 2. (1:40)
Check it out here.
Sparks - Grade 2 Light up the concert hall with energy and excitement! A variety of textures and techniques are featured while everyone in the string orchestra has an important role. Well suited as a concert closer or festival piece, your students will want to play this one again and again.
Check it out here.
Wind Dancer - Grade 2 With its optimistic and light sound, Wind Dancer is a great concert choice! Use your imagination and create your own story to accompany the melodic and rhythmic themes in the piece. Every section has an opportunity to shine, and a pizzicato section adds to the charm.
Check it out here.
Grade 3
It Takes Two - Grade 3 This appealing tango is full of drama and passion, with an aggressive, dark theme and strong rhythm. Each member of the ensemble gets a moment in the spotlight and will surely enjoy achieving the challenges of their part.
Check it out here.
The Reel Deal - Grade 3 - The Reel Deal by Chris M. Bernotas will be one of your students' favorite pieces. This original reel lies well in the key of D major. Surprising harmonies add to originality of this piece. All of the instruments get a chance to play the melody, and clear fingerings and bowings have been added throughout. The optional cajon creates an authentic Irish feel. A perfect closer to any festival or concert!
Check it out here.
FULL ORCHESTRA
Blue Tango - Grade 3.5 Brilliantly scored and in a friendly key, "Blue Tango" by Leroy Anderson, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, will highlight your symphony orchestra in any concert or festival. This classic reached the top of the Billboard charts in the early 1950s and will be a favorite for both your students and audience. Closely arranged to the original, the beautiful melodies, full range of dynamics, and clearly marked articulations will provide excellent teaching moments and exciting performances.
Check it out here.
Field Day - Grade 1.5 Your students will have a field day filled with fun as they perform this exciting overture! Field Day, by Chris M. Bernotas, works perfectly for string orchestra alone or with added winds and percussion up to a full orchestra. A fantastic piece for your students' first full-orchestra experience. (2:50)
Check it out here.
A Hanukkah Festival - Grade 3.5 A Hanukkah Festival, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, is a medley of three traditional Hanukkah songs, "Sevivon," "Maoz Tzur," and "Hanukkah." "Sevivon" has a dramatic melody and is written with a variety of accompaniment leading to a brief, but impressive, clarinet cadenza (cued in violin 1) that leads into "Maoz Tzur." This traditional piece is scored with full, rich voicings along with the beautiful melody. "Hanukkah" is the festival of lights and the last section of the piece. It is a bright playful march with an exciting conclusion. A Hanukkah Festival is filled with memorable tunes that students and audiences will enjoy while paying homage to this important holiday. Sure to become a staple in the literature.
Check it out here.
Peer Gynt Suite No.1, Op.46 - Grade 3 A stunning arrangement of the incredible masterwork Peer Gynt Suite No.1, Op. 46! It is perfect for string orchestra alone, or with added instruments up to a full orchestra. This setting, by Chris M. Bernotas, offers the opportunity to explore the entire suite. All four movements are presented in approachable keys and are abridged to the perfect length and difficulty level for your next concert. (5:30)
Check it out here.
Theme from Swan Lake - Grade 2.5 Chris M. Bernotas has provided a fantastic arrangement of one of the most beautiful Tchaikovsky themes from Swan Lake, Op. 20a, No. 1 Scène. This arrangement will work perfectly for your string orchestra alone or with added winds and percussion up to a full orchestra. This hauntingly beautiful and powerful piece has many opportunities for students to develop their phrasing, tremolo, dynamic contrasts, and rhythmic understanding. (2:40)
Check it out here.
Themes from March Slav - Grade 3 Your symphony orchestra will love March Slav by Piotr Ilych Tchaikovsky, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas. Scored for full orchestra or strings only, this arrangement features great themes and a big full symphonic sound. Featuring a reduced number of wind parts to allow for maximum accessibility for a younger full orchestra, this iconic march is a great way to introduce your students to the music of Tchaikovsky. Truly a wonderful choice for a departmental collaboration or any festival or contest.
Check it out here.
Two Puccini Arias - Grade 3.5 Two Puccini Arias, arranged by Chris M. Bernotas, includes "O Mio Babbino Caro" and "Nessun Dorma," two of the composer's most beloved arias. This breathtaking full orchestra arrangement is equally effective for string orchestra alone or with added winds and percussion. There is a brief violin solo in "O Mio Babbino Caro" and an expressive cello solo in "Nessun Dorma." Experience captivating melodies and Puccini's operatic brilliance. (4:25)
Check it out here.