Fiddler’s Farewell is a soulful Gaelic-style piece for middle and high school strings. Inherent sensitivity encourages exploration of expressive phrasing colours and direction. An animated, rhythmic dance as the middle episode provides ideal balance to flowing outer sections. Keith Sharp’s desire to involve all players is evidenced by the skilful integration and sharing of melody, harmony and accompanying roles. There is sufficient technical interest and lyrical possibility to engage students of varied standard across the ensemble.

An optional piano part, though not essential to the arrangement, enhances the texture for performance.

Grade: 2.5

Duration: 3:15 approx.

Key: E Aeolian Mode and related keys.