Folk Music for String Orchestra

A fun and easy medley of four French folk songs that provides opportunities for cross-cultural study. Challenge your orchestra to see how fast they can play the exciting cancan finish!

Based on Thomas Moore's famous song The Minstrel Boy, this work uses the full gamut of styles and techniques to showcase your ensemble. In three distinct variations, lyrical phrasing, energetic

This lively folk song celebrates early American life riding in a wagon. Spirited themes combine with engaging harmonic and rhythmic writing throughout, with engaging parts for all members of the orchestra.

Experience this poignant folk song about loneliness and desire that builds from a solitary melody to an emotional, harmony-driven climax. Smooth textures and flowing melodies meld seamlessly with dramatic

A beloved Appalachian folk song and spiritual that is perfect for historical study! This arrangement generally stays in 1st position and employs mainly standard rhythms with a great introduction to

A beautiful and lush arrangement of this American folk song. Gorgeous orchestrations and colorful scoring provide endless opportunities for young players to develop their lyrical playing skills. Both

Containing elements of traditional Welsh folk music, this light work features flowing melodies with an emphasis on phrasing.

The traditional favorite heard each holiday season is given a new sound with this fresh arrangement. Contemporary harmonies and solid orchestration for younger players make it a great choice for holiday

When Johnny Comes Marching Home was popular with both the Confederate and Union Armies during the American Civil War. Students will love to play this exciting arrangement that remains in first

Based on the emotional Irish song, this thoughtful setting paints a picture of a man dreaming of the day he can return home. At times, the piece feels more like a fantasy than an arrangement as the melody

This traditional Ethiopian folk song is an ancient tribal call to war. Optional percussion depicts the pounding of the African drums that stirs a sense of anticipation and bravery. Intermediate students

Zombies are everywhere these days - at least in songs, movies, and on TV! This original piece is a tip of the hat to the wildly popular sci-fi craze. Written for first year orchestra students, Zombie