Swan Song for String Orchestra and Piano

Swan Song for String Orchestra and Piano (2002)Swan Song has many musical and technical elements worthy of scrutiny. The several accidentals and the chords they form will be strange for a while until the students become comfortable with the fact that they know all these notes and concepts individually. Stress the opening chords (B-flat to C in the viola beneath the D to E in the 2nd violin) with the G and D in the cello causing a dissonance The 1st violin should be sure of the notes in the rising melody from bar 4. The B-flat and F-sharp in the same measure in the cello solo will need attention. The piece will suffer if the expression marks and dynamics are ignored. The eighth note at m.m. 92 delivers a satisfying lilt with the repetitive cello line. Attention to all of the above will reveal the arch form with the climax reached at letter D and the continuous fall to the end. The piano part is not essential but is helpful, especially with small classes.

Score and set of parts ………………… 12.00

Sound file ………………………………….. 1.00