Evangeline: Two Cajun Songs: Full Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
Traditional / arr. Michael Story
Grade: 3
Item: 00-PK-0001566
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Description
Characterized by a French dialect, the Cajun people have an equally distinct musical tradition. This lovely arrangement captures the spirit and enthusiasm of these proud people. Presented in two separate movements, the diversity of the Cajun music heritage is pronounced as your students play "Tout Un Beau Soir En Me Promenant (On a Beautiful Evening While Out Walking)" and "Danse de Mardi Gras." (2:05)
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Evangeline: Two Cajun Songs: Full Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
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Additional Details
Series:
Belwin Concert Full Orchestra
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
152
SKU:
00-PK-0001566
More about this title
About the Arranger: Michael Story
Michael Story is a prolific composer and arranger whose catalog spans wind band, orchestra, and choral music. His arrangements are known for making culturally rich repertoire accessible to student ensembles while preserving authentic musical character and pedagogical clarity.
Why we love this
Story's ear for orchestration shines here, the two movements offer contrasting moods without demanding virtuosity, making this ideal for mixed-ability orchestras that still want substantive cultural content. The relatively compact runtime and clear two-part structure give you natural programming flexibility.
What to expect
The first movement unfolds with the gentle pace of an evening stroll, its melodies colored by French dialect and regional warmth. The second movement shifts into the spirited, communal energy of Mardi Gras celebration, where rhythm and joy drive every phrase.
Who it's for
Orchestras at Grade 3 level looking to program music beyond the European canon. This arrangement works for conductors seeking to deepen student understanding of American regional music traditions and for orchestras preparing for concert or festival performance.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the folk melody lines across your string sections; these melodies carry the Cajun character and need prominence without drowning out the harmonic support underneath.
- Pay attention to the rhythmic drive in the Mardi Gras movement. Even though the grade level is accessible, the energy needs to feel authentic, encourage your ensemble to feel the pulse rather than just count it.
- Record a practice run with just the melody instruments (woodwinds and first violins) to lock the tune before adding full orchestration. This clarifies the shape of each movement.
How to use it
Pair this with other American regional music to build a concert theme around folk traditions, or use it as a cultural bridge in a unit exploring music beyond the standard classical canon. The two movements also work as bookends for a concert, opening with "On a Beautiful Evening" and closing with the festive Mardi Gras dance creates a satisfying arc.
Skills your students will build
- Reading and interpreting French dialect text within musical context
- Balancing melody and accompaniment across a full orchestra texture
- Responding to rhythmic character specific to dance music tradition
- Coordinating orchestral sections to maintain regional musical authenticity