Three Beginner Pieces (Neridah Oostenbroek) for String Orchestra

1. Blue Grooves (142) This fun and energetic piece only uses notes from a 1 octave D major scale as well as halfway harmonics. The rhythm is almost always in unison or a call and answer structure. The jazzy piano part is essential to the piece (a recorded part is available online) and makes the piece come alive. There are flexible parts included for all of the pieces and have all 3 upper parts (not the double bass part) written for just the 1 instrument (e.g. all violins) so that you can use the pieces in same instrument classes or flexible ensembles.

2. Resting Place (200) This gentle piece is in B minor but has just simple hand positions. It encourages legato bowing and helps to develop dynamic awareness.

3. Sailors Dance (108) A lively piece in E minor, this simple piece is fun to play. Simple rhythms and notes and lots of unison parts, this is a great piece for beginners.

Instrumentation: Violins, Viola, Cello, Bass, Piano, flexible parts
Grade: 0.5 – 1
EQ IM Level: 2