Bolero for Strings

A great way to introduce your beginning ensemble to the "Bolero" style, this original work features a legato melody over a steady ostinato pattern that can be enhanced with optional snare drum. Well within the capabilities of your student players.

Program Notes

Bolero for Strings is reminiscent of the Spanish bolero, although in 4/4 time. With a rhythmic pattern stated by the entire ensemble, it continues throughout the piece while a single melody changes texture and timbre. All the violins have the melody first, then first violins with cellos at the sixth, and, finally, a key change with violins and violas in harmony in thirds moving towards a climax building from open G strings to a G major chord. Accessible to second year players, Bolero for Strings will provide a nice contrast in any concert program.

Grade Level: 1.5
Copyright: 2010
Number of Players: 8-8-5-5-5 + 1
Duration: 2:30

Listen to Recordings

Sample PDF

Instrumentation

Violin I
Violin II
Viola
Cello
Bass

Snare Drum