Orchestra Best Sellers

Teachers keep coming back to From the Start by Laufey (Grade 2.5) and Force of Nature by Brian Balmages (Grade 2) for reliable concert pieces. Gravitas by Soon Hee Newbold (Grade 3) brings sophistication to intermediate programs, while Five Note Fiddler by Balmages (Grade 0.5) serves beginning ensembles with engaging, approachable material.

Brian Balmages brings three decades of professional performance across orchestral, band, and chamber settings to his string writing. His ability to scale difficulty without sacrificing musicality makes pieces like Force of Nature and Five Note Fiddler accessible to elementary students while remaining valid concert repertoire. His A. Austin Harding Award from the American School Band Directors Association reflects his impact on school music programs.

Soon Hee Newbold's background as both a concert performer and world traveler informs her approach to composition. She routinely incorporates cultural and ethnic musical styles into her work, bringing textural variety and authenticity to pieces like Gravitas that challenge and expand young musicians' listening and playing.

Richard Meyer's 35 years teaching strings at all levels, including 22 years building a large orchestra program from 29 to 200 students at Oak Avenue Intermediate School, shaped his understanding of what repertoire actually works in growing programs. His clinic and guest conducting work continues to influence educators nationwide.

Chris M. Bernotas directs instrumental publications for Alfred Music while maintaining an active composing schedule. His compositions balance accessibility with emotional substance, designed to engage early-career musicians without compromising artistic integrity.