String Theory

Hello All! This is a recent composition of mine for a string orchestra that I was commissioned to write. Keep in mind the age group for this piece is about 9-10 grade level.

All feedback is welcome as long as it is constructive. 
 

I hope you enjoy!!!

https://youtu.be/zbDPZNjM8D4

Not bad. Some good ideas. A few thoughts:

1. Consider expanding more on your harmonic language. The piece doesn't seem to venture or modulate much. 

2. Work on strengthening some of your lines. I noticed, for instance, that you have some contrapuntal interplay between the 2nd violins, violas, and cellos -primarily imitating the accompaniment. I'd love to see some of this material engage in more contrapuntal textures (which brings me to the second thought...)

3. Given the limited scope of the harmonic underpinning, I think the piece could be further improved with stronger -more dynamic- textures. The ending of it is, hands down, awesome. I'd like to see more of this peppered throughout the work. It would definitely lend more interest.

4. Finally, be sure to correct some of the misspelled tempo markings. For example, at letter J... you have PUI moso, when it should be Piu moso. 

All in all, not a bad piece. Looking forward to hearing the live recording.

Agree with jawoodruff.

On 12/11/2019 at 10:09 AM, jawoodruff said:

Consider expanding more on your harmonic language. The piece doesn't seem to venture or modulate much.

Although this is true, I don't think it is particularly necessary in this particular piece. I like the harmonic vocabulary used in here and I think that the piece is quite well-balanced. 

As for the interplay between the lines, I do think it could use some work.

I find that from letter N on, it gets a bit tiring. It feels like the piece is going to end at letter M, but it breaks that feel and keeps going, which I found quite jarring.

I found this piece very nice-sounding. Great job.

Cheers!