These three miniatures are well-suited for a lower or intermediate school orchestra, or for a school orchestra in its early stages of development. All pieces can be performed in first position, and with proper rehearsal, they are also suitable for younger ensembles. The three miniatures are titled "Intrada - Pastorella - March." Precise markings regarding tempo, dynamics, phrasing, and the required clear, full pressure facilitate rehearsal, as do the bar numbers. The Pastorella includes pizzicato and mutes, as well as a possible harmonic for 2 1/2 bars in the first violin. Double stops should be played confidently divisi. The contrast between duple and triple rhythms between the first/second violin and cello is also striking. In the March, the parallel fourths and, briefly, the parallel fifths are interesting.
Instrumentation: 2 violins, cello or children's orchestra
Difficulty level: easy. Duration: Intrada = 1:30 min, Pastorella = 1:30 min, March = 1 min, Total time 4 minutes