Brazilian Spice: Score
By Cathy Morris
Grade: 4
Item: 98-DST6327S
$5.00
Pickup currently not available
Description
Transform your orchestra into a Latin band with this burnin' jazz samba! Featuring solo violin (electric or acoustic) along with full rhythm section, this chart centers on a blues-like melody with traditional Latin rhythms. A solo section over a single chord lets your students shine in the world of improvisation, or consider bringing in a guest artist. Plenty of fun for both soloist and ensemble!
Brazilian Spice: Score isn't in MakeMusic Cloud just yet...but it could be. Let us know you'd like to see it, and you'll help shape what comes next. In the meantime, start a free trial and dive into thousands of interactive titles your students can play along with today.
Request This Title
Tell us you want it.
Start Your Free Trial
Explore everything that's ready to play right now.
Sample Audio
1
Audio File
--:--
0:00
0:00
Sample Video
No sample videos found.
Additional Details
Series:
FJH String Orchestra
Publisher:
The FJH Music Company, Inc.
SKU:
98-DST6327S
More about this title
About the Composer: Cathy Morris
Cathy Morris has built a reputation for composing accessible, genre-blending works that energize student ensembles. Her arrangements and original compositions frequently appear in festival programs and concert halls where directors seek music that combines solid pedagogy with genuine entertainment value.
Why we love this
This chart cracks the code for bringing genuine Latin jazz energy into a string orchestra setting without requiring your students to master unfamiliar instrumental techniques. The structured solo section gives your strongest player a real spotlight while keeping the ensemble grounded in a rhythm section that actually swings, making this feel like a genuine jazz experience rather than a classical arrangement of a Latin tune.
What to expect
Infectious and propulsive. The samba rhythm gives the piece forward momentum while the blues-inflected melody keeps it approachable and singable. There's a genuine party atmosphere here, with the ensemble providing the engine and the soloist riding the wave with personality and freedom.
Who it's for
String orchestras at the intermediate level (Grade 4) ready to branch into styles beyond classical and contemporary concert music. This works especially well for directors seeking to build student awareness of Latin jazz idioms and to give advanced violinists experience with solo work and ensemble interaction.
How to get the most out of it
- Establish the groove in the rhythm section first. Have your bass and piano (if available) lock the samba feel before adding strings, then layer the rest of the ensemble in.
- Work the soloist separately on phrasing and blues vocabulary before combining with the full orchestra. The improvisation section is more rewarding when the soloist has internalized the harmonic landscape.
- Balance the melody carefully. The violin solo needs to sit on top, but the rhythm section's forward motion shouldn't disappear behind the strings.
- Let the ensemble hear recordings of authentic samba and jazz to absorb the rhythmic pocket before sight-reading begins.
How to use it
Reserve this for a pops concert or a spring concert seeking variety and energy. Pair it with one or two other world music selections to build a thematic program, or use it as a finale to remind audiences that orchestral music can be playful and contemporary.
Skills your students will build
- Playing with Latin rhythms (samba/jazz feel) in ensemble context
- Accompanying a soloist while maintaining rhythmic precision
- Understanding blues melody and harmonic movement
- Building listening and ensemble awareness in unfamiliar style
- Solo improvisation (for violinist or guest artist)