Great Times A Comin': Violin 1
By William Owens
Grade: 1.5
Item: 98-PC-DST6291_VN1
$7.00
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Description
This lively original work embodies the character and spirit of the African-American spiritual. Combining themes of struggle, oppression, and hope for the future, the music begins quite vigorously before easing into a haunting middle section. Soon after, the music returns to its joyous nature, which is carried through to the spirited ending. Includes optional percussion.
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Additional Details
Series:
FJH Beginning Strings
Publisher:
The FJH Music Company, Inc.
SKU:
98-PC-DST6291_VN1
More about this title
About the Composer: William Owens
William Owens has spent his career bridging the gap between musical ambition and practical classroom needs. Born in Gary, Indiana, he studied at Chicago's VanderCook College of Music and went on to direct bands in Texas for three decades before retiring in 2014. His compositional output reflects decades of direct experience: over 300 works for concert band, string orchestra, and chamber ensembles that have become staples in school music programs across North America.
Owens' approach to writing for young musicians combines accessibility with musical substance. His works appear on required lists nationally and internationally, and several have been featured in educational texts as models of effective scoring. He holds membership in ASCAP and the American Bandmasters Association, and was honored as a Distinguished Alumnus by VanderCook College. He currently resides in Fort Worth, Texas.
Why we love this
This piece captures the spiritual tradition with genuine musicality while respecting the developmental needs of younger string players. The arc from vigorous opening to introspective middle section to joyous return gives students a complete emotional and technical experience, and the optional percussion parts invite collaboration across your program.
What to expect
The opening surges with determination and forward motion, driven by rhythmic energy that carries the entire ensemble. When the music pulls back into its middle section, a different quality emerges: reflective, spacious, almost prayer-like. By the time it returns to brightness and motion, the emotional journey feels earned and complete.
Who it's for
Beginning string orchestras ready to tackle something with real emotional depth. This works beautifully for ensembles at the Grade 1-2 level who have the fundamentals in place but need repertoire that asks them to think beyond mechanics. It's equally valuable for directors seeking concert material that honors cultural tradition without oversimplifying the music.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the opening's energy across all string sections so the initial vigor feels unified rather than chaotic; a clear beat from the conductor matters here.
- In the middle section, let the strings breathe and shape phrases generously; this haunting passage needs space to resonate.
- If adding percussion, keep parts light and supportive throughout, especially during the softer central passage where strings are the primary voice.
- Build momentum gradually back into the final section rather than shifting abruptly; the transition should feel inevitable, not sudden.
How to use it
Program this as a centerpiece for a concert devoted to spirituals and American roots music, where it can sit alongside choral arrangements or folk-inspired works. It also serves as an excellent standalone opener or closer for a winter or spring concert, offering both substance and accessibility to family audiences. Consider pairing it with similarly scaled original works to showcase what young string players can accomplish.
Skills your students will build
- Sustaining energy through rhythmic figures without rushing
- Creating dynamic contrast between sections (vigorous to haunting to joyous)
- Ensemble balance and blend across string sections
- Responding to longer musical phrases and structural design
- Maintaining intonation during sustained passages in the middle section