Leaderboard

Hi everyone! I finally completed my scherzo for the String orchestra in A Minor, op. 5. It was commissioned to be performed by my school's string ensemble in a community concert, where the proceeds will be donated to a children's foundation for kids in need. The maximum stipulated duration for the piece was 3 minute 30 seconds (hence the short nature of the piece) and it follows an A-B-B'-A' structure. It uses an overarching melodic motif omnipresent throughout the piece with numerous rhythmic motifs along the way. Feel free to provide some feedback! Scherzo for the String Orchestra, Op. 5.pdf Scherzo for the String Orchestra in A Minor, Op. 5 - Scherzo for the String Orchestra, Op. 5.mp3

Hi @pateceramics A lovely piece, I also really like the text you have chosen. The contrasts between solo, trio and tutti are really interesting to me, and I think you've done well to handle the various types of texture this throws up. I would maybe have liked a reprise of the solo or trio texture nearer to the end, as this could perhaps tie the structure of the work together nicely. Maybe even a reprise of the opening lines? Another thing: have you thought about the position of the solo voices? Are they all standing together in a group; in their normal places; spaced across the stage or even around the church/hall? I particularly enjoyed the section from Bar 32-59 with the metric changes. It flowed very well despite the irregular phrase lengths and successfully followed the patterns of speech, thus it was very soulful! After a quick glance, it looks okay. The hand that a pianist will play a particular line with is really due to hand shape, size, dominant hand etc. so is unique to each pianist! Unless it's an etude or similar where it really matters which hand plays what, us pianists will usually just play whatever feels comfortable to get the notes in. Is the part for rehearsal only? If so, I wouldn't worry about changing anything. EDIT: after actually looking at the score, I see that the piano is specified for rehearsal. You're fine to leave is as it is! Well done, this is a beautiful example of choral music!

Wow thank you so much for your extensive and thoughtful review and critiques! Definitely food for thought when I make my next attempt in this form.

Hello everyone, here I am presenting you another composition of mine. This one I finished a few years ago as part of my academic studies. It is a typical variation cycle. The goal was to practice putting thematic material in different context, as you will hear. I hope you enjoy the video too.