Accidental March: Conductor Score & Parts

Berstein transforms a technical challenge into a musical asset. Rather than isolating accidental fingerings as drill work, he weaves them into a march structure that sounds purposeful and engaging, so students absorb new positions while playing something that feels like real music.

A straightforward march with a clever melodic twist that reveals itself through careful listening. The accidentals shimmer naturally within the harmonic fabric, creating moments of brightness that keep the ear engaged.

String orchestras at the intermediate level who are ready to tackle chromatic movement and extended fingering patterns. This work suits directors seeking repertoire that teaches technique without feeling like a technical study.

• Establish a steady tempo that lets students comfortably navigate the new fingerings without rushing. The march should breathe naturally, not feel hurried.
• Highlight the logical progression of accidentals as Berstein introduces them. Direct your concertmaster and first-chair players to anchor these moments so the rest of the section follows with confidence.
• Balance the march rhythms across all sections so the clever harmonic movement stays clear. Avoid letting lower strings overshadow the melodic line where the accidentals appear.

Program this alongside more traditional marches to show your audience how string technique can drive musical character. It works equally well as a festival entry where the technical foundation is as impressive as the musical result.

• Reading and executing accidentals in various positions across the fingerboard
• Extended fingering patterns for chromatic passages
• Maintaining intonation through accidental shifts
• Ensemble balance when one section carries accidental-based melodic material
• March rhythm and style in a string context