Into the Shadows (Brian Balmages) for String Orchestra

Journey into a place where shapes constantly shift as the light moves, and nothing is quite as it seems. While very approachable for intermediate orchestras, Into the Shadows pushes harmonic boundaries and colors, ushering in a new realm of sonic possibilities. Creative, eerie, and exciting, this is Brian Balmages as you have never heard him!

“Into The Shadows is a definite stand-out from the 2024-5 release catalogue! Compositionally, this work by Brian Balmages is a much longer piece, and melodically it is very contrasting to other pieces at this level. The work is very much a chromatic work, with much less vertical writing than what is sometimes seen in the string repertoire. There is quite a lot of harmonic tension and moments of dissonance, exposing students to a work that is more moody. However, this work is approachable as Balmages uses relatively simple rhythms, and gives space to experiment with more advanced elements such col legno and portamento. The Violin 2 and Violin 3 parts allow for mixed groups.” – Jacqui (Education Manager)

Duration: 4:15
Key(s): D minor, with regular use of chromatic notes
Approximate EQ Level: 5, though rhythmically simple for this level.
Grade: 2.5