A Scary Scherzo: String Orchestra, Score and Parts

$45.00 USD

A Scary Scherzo: String Orchestra, Score and Parts

Name: A Scary Scherzo: String Orchestra, Score and Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 36-50250017
Price: 45.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Jared Spears

Grade: 2.5

Item: 36-50250017

$45.00

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Everyone gets to share the fun in this bit of musical "trick or treating" from Jared Spears. Artfully crafted, cleverly melodic, and expertly constructed rhythmically, this whimsical original features individual parts that are quite independent for the difficulty level. Program at Halloween, or any time throughout the year.

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, A Scary Scherzo: String Orchestra, Score and Parts comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.

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Series: LudwigMasters Developing Strings

Publisher: Keiser Productions, Inc.

ISBN10: 1-57-134709-7

ISBN13: 978-1-57-134709-1

UPC: 654690695604

SKU: 36-50250017

Instrumentation: String Orchestra

More about this title

About the Composer: Jared Spears

Jared Spears built a distinguished career as a composer and educator across five decades. After earning degrees in music education and composition from Northern Illinois University, the Cosmopolitan School of Music, and Northwestern University, he spent 32 years on the faculty at Arkansas State University, where he taught theory, history, composition, and percussion across all levels. His teachers included respected composers Alan Stout and Anthony Donato.

Since retiring in 1999, Spears has maintained an active composing schedule, producing over 250 works for band, choir, orchestra, and chamber ensembles published by American and European publishers. His honors include the Faricy Award for Creative Music from Northwestern University, multiple ASCAP awards, citations from the National Band Association, and the University President's Award at Arkansas State. His music has been performed worldwide, and he has conducted festivals and clinics in Canada, Europe, and throughout the United States.

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Why we love this

Spears writes string parts that sound independent and engaging even at Grade 2.5, giving every section genuine melodic material rather than padding. The whimsical character and rhythmic sophistication make this a memorable addition to any concert, whether you're programming a Halloween show or looking for something playful in a spring concert. The score balances accessibility with genuine compositional craft, so students feel like they're performing real music.

What to expect

A playful, slightly mischievous musical adventure that captures the spirit of Halloween without being trite. The writing bounces with rhythmic energy and melodic charm, creating something whimsical that feels both clever and genuinely fun for players.

Who it's for

This work suits developing string orchestras that are ready for parts with more independence and personality. It works equally well for ensembles looking for a Halloween-themed performance or for any director seeking Grade 2.5 repertoire that engages students without overwhelming them.

How to get the most out of it

Bring out the individual voice lines in each section; this piece rewards players who listen across the orchestra rather than just watching the conductor.
Establish a clear pulse early in rehearsal since the rhythmic independence can feel looser than a more traditional Grade 2.5 piece. Lock the ensemble together on the main themes before adding interpretive flexibility.
Let the "trick or treating" character breathe through dynamic contrast. Spears has crafted the dynamics deliberately, so honor them rather than playing everything at a consistent level.

How to use it

Program this as a concert opener or closer to lighten a program; the standalone character and accessible difficulty make it an ideal palette cleanser between heavier or longer works. It also works beautifully as a standalone Halloween concert piece or as part of a "music of the seasons" program.