"Nova jornada" is Portuguese for "new journey." This piece is dedicated to the composer's friend, Raquel Bastos, as she embarks upon her new journey as Director of Strings at Somerville House. (2:25)
Dedicated to the composers' new grandson, this uncomplicated, gentle lullaby requires smooth, legato bows, and sustained long notes—ideal for practicing developing vibrato technique. Some extension
Just like the piece says: it's all about counting beats, rhythms, and rests. This piece makes it easy to teach the young ensemble all at the same time, as the rhythms are identical. The piano part greatly
This piece is ideally suited to introducing half position. It does not complicate the learning with intricate rhythms but focuses on the harmonies and melodic line using low first fingers in all parts.
A slow D minor introduction leads into a moderately fast melody that is shared around the ensemble. The celli take the melody, accompanied by pizzicato in the other sections before a second slow lament.
The irregular 5/4 time signature found here is not often used in educational ensemble music. This original piece uses a 3 + 2 feel and, at times, a 2 + 3 feel. The syncopated rhythm is repetitive and has a
This melancholy ballad set in E minor is reminiscent of early Australian bush music, based on Irish folk tradition. It uses dotted rhythms and requires careful counting of rests. The piano part is optional,