An Embarrassing Position: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
By Dan Shore
Item: 35-PK00290519
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Description
"An Embarrassing Position," a comic opera in one act based on a sketch by Kate Chopin, takes place in New Orleans in the 1890s. Willis Parkham is a young bachelor running for political office. Late one night after a so-called "political meeting," Eva Delvigné, the lovely and naïve daughter of a family friend, unexpectedly announces herself. Before Mr. Parkham can figure out what to do, there is another knock at the door, but this time it's-gasp!-June Jinkins, the gossip columnist for the New Orleans Times-Democrat! Winner of the 2013 National Opera Association Chamber Opera Competition. For four sopranos and one baritone; scored for ragtime orchestra. Duration: 30:00
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Additional Details
Publisher:
Hal Leonard
SKU:
35-PK00290519
More about this title
Why we love this
Shore's orchestration captures the playful absurdity of the scenario without ever winking at the audience. The ragtime scoring feels genuinely period-appropriate rather than pastiche, giving conductors and players real musical substance beneath the comic surface. It's rare to find a chamber opera that works this well for student ensembles while still holding up to repeated listening.
What to expect
Witty and rollicking, with the sophisticated humor of turn-of-the-century New Orleans. The orchestration sparkles without being showy; beneath the comedy sits genuine lyricism and craft that keeps the piece from feeling like a novelty.
Who it's for
Orchestras with strong soloists (four sopranos and a baritone) who want to tackle opera without the scale or budget of a full pit orchestra. This works for advanced high school and college programs looking for repertoire that entertains audiences while demanding genuine musicianship.
How to get the most out of it
- Lean into the character voices even as an instrumental ensemble. Each soloist has distinct musical personality; make sure the orchestra responds to their phrasing rather than grinding through mechanically.
- The ragtime idiom requires a lighter articulation than classical string writing. Avoid heavy vibrato on the rhythmic figures, especially in the accompaniment.
- Track the libretto closely during rehearsals. Knowing where the dramatic beat lands helps your ensemble shape phrases dramatically rather than musically.
How to use it
Program this as a concert centerpiece that breaks up a traditional chamber orchestra season. Its humor and accessibility make it ideal for a pops concert or special spring program, yet the 30-minute length means it anchors the second half rather than feeling like filler.
Skills your students will build
- Coordinating with solo voices while maintaining orchestral independence
- Playing in ragtime idiom with appropriate rhythmic swing and articulation
- Reading orchestral texture that shifts rapidly between accompaniment and melodic roles
- Responding to dramatic pacing and character interaction in opera music