It Takes Two: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

$58.00 USD

It Takes Two: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

Name: It Takes Two: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-43788
Price: 58.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Chris M. Bernotas

Grade: 3

Item: 00-43788

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This appealing tango is full of drama and passion, with an aggressive, dark theme and strong rhythm. Each member of the ensemble gets a moment in the spotlight and will surely enjoy achieving the challenges of their part. The melody, countermelody, and tango rhythm will have them dancing! (2:00)

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Series: Belwin Concert String Orchestra

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 128

UPC: 038081496610

SKU: 00-43788

More about this title

About the Composer: Chris M. Bernotas

Chris M. Bernotas brings more than 25 years of music education experience to his work as a composer and conductor. As Director of Instrumental Publications for Alfred Music, he shapes curriculum and repertoire for band and orchestra programs globally, drawing on deep classroom knowledge to inform every piece he writes.

Bernotas is known for compositions that balance accessibility with genuine musical substance, performed by ensembles ranging from developing groups to advanced performers. Beyond composing, he actively conducts honor groups and leads workshops for teachers and students, while co-authoring several pedagogical resources including the Sound Innovations series. His advocacy for music education extends to frequent presentations on conducting and composition, cementing his role as both a creator and mentor to the field.

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Why we love this

Grade 3 repertoire rarely offers this much character and individual spotlight without oversimplifying the writing. Every stand gets a moment to drive the ensemble forward, building investment across the entire section while the tango idiom keeps energy high and engagement genuine.

What to expect

Intense and sensual, with a dark undercurrent that tango demands. The rhythm pulses beneath soaring melodies and countermelodies, creating momentum that pulls listeners forward while individual players experience brief moments of spotlight and vulnerability.

Who it's for

String orchestras working at Grade 3 level who are ready for repertoire with genuine dramatic substance and multicultural context. Directors seeking a concert or festival piece that engages every player with meaningful solo moments will find strong material here.

How to get the most out of it

Establish the tango rhythm early in sectional rehearsals by having students tap the characteristic syncopated pulse while reading their parts; this groove becomes the glue holding ensemble cohesion together.
Balance the melody and countermelody carefully so neither line drowns out the other. Mark dynamic relationships in score and parts to ensure soloists sing over accompaniment voices.
Draw out the aggressive, dark character by asking the ensemble to imagine the dramatic tension of the tango itself. This context helps younger players understand why certain moments demand intensity and control.
Lock the rhythm section (cellos and basses) to anchor the groove while upper strings layer melodic material on top. Separate rehearsals of these voices build precision before combining them.

How to use it

Program this as a concert centerpiece or contest selection where you want to showcase rhythmic sophistication and character acting from Grade 3 musicians. The two-minute duration fits naturally in festival slots, and the multicultural tango idiom adds programming variety alongside standard concert fare.