recommended by Maureen Driscoll and Megan W., Orchestra Specialists
The Last Rose of Summer arr. Jim Palmer, Grade 2
“The Last Rose of Summer” is a traditional Irish tune arranged by Jim Palmer. The beautiful melody, rich harmonies, and interesting accompaniment will help your young orchestra sound mature. The long phrases are highlighted with beautiful slurs and a variety of dynamics. Pizzicato, slurs and ties create the interesting accompaniments. Well-developed phrases and unexpected chords provide opportunities for artistic expression. A perfect choice to teach a broad range of musical ideas.
Sea Shanty Saga arr. Tyler Arcari, Grade 3.5
Who would have thought that sea shanties would have caused a huge social media craze? These three classic yet timely shanties are scored for string orchestra. These are also perfectly suitable for festival performance in addition to the countless other applications of this fun and energetic music!
Appalachian Daybreak by Ben Snoek, Grade 3.5
Written through inspiration from the Bluegrass region of Kentucky, this wonderfully folk-like work is perfect for working phrasing and expression with your string orchestra.
Kahuli Aku arr. Amanda Suckow, Grade 1
This arrangement of the Hawaiian folk song “Kahuli Aku” will evoke the imagery and vibrancy of the “singing snails” (kahuli) depicted in the song lyric. Young musicians and their audience will sense a deep connection and respect for the earth and its creatures. Performing “Kahuli Aku” using the woodblock, wind chimes, staccato, tenuto, and engaging dynamics, students will imitate the Hawaiian kahuli in their music as they hope to be brought a drink of water by the kolea (plover bird) from the ‘akolea fern.
Mustang Triumph by Sarah Siegler, Grade 3
“Mustang Triumph” portrays a herd of wild mustangs galloping through the plains. Great for showing off the full tutti sound of your orchestra!
Kentucky Mountain Hoedown arr. Mekel Rogers, Grade 1+
A lively folk dance written for young orchestra musicians. The main theme is based on the eastern Kentucky folk tune “Old Joe Clark,” a song about a 19th-century Kentucky mountaineer. The piece should be played with energy in a lively dance style throughout. An optional woodblock part is included to evoke the sound of clog dancing.
The Iron Road by Eric B. Davis/arr. J. Cameron Law, Grade 1
This original work has a medieval sound. It gets its name from the West Highland Railway in Scotland that goes from the city of Glasgow north to the beautiful and scenic Highlands. The main theme, played in upper and lower strings, and the descant in the first violin part are intended to evoke the experience of journeying the Iron Road to the lush and pastoral Highlands.
Through Moanin’ Pines by Harry T. Burleigh/arr. Dion Morales, Grade 2
This hauntingly beautiful lyrical transcription of a piano composition features syncopated rhythms along with pizzicato, legato, and gentle dynamics. Low first fingering patterns, basses play in half position. A great showcase for your orchestra’s tone and musicality.
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About the Authors:
Maureen Driscoll is the Orchestra Music Specialist at Stanton’s Sheet Music. Originally from the Cleveland area, she attended Miami University in Oxford to study Music Education. After graduating in 2017, Maureen spent five years teaching middle and high school orchestra in Cincinnati-area public schools. A lifelong violinist, she likes to perform with community orchestras and play gigs to keep herself busy. When she’s not working or performing, Maureen enjoys exploring nature, playing video games, baking, and spending time with her boyfriend and two cats.
Megan W., originally from Pittsburgh PA, is happy to call Columbus and Stanton’s Sheet Music “Home.” As a musician, Megan has played in marching and concert bands, youth orchestras, full orchestras, small ensembles, and a few choirs. Her interests include fiddling, reading, writing, martial arts and yoga.
Categories: New Publications, Orchestra, Staff Picks
Stanton's Sheet Music 
Thank you for recommending “The Last Rose of Summer”! I am SoO glad you like it!!! Jim Palmer
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