Jericho Sheet Music Preview

Jericho: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

Arranged by David Shaffer

Grade: 2.5

Item: 98-DST6065

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Description
David Shaffer cleverly combines swing and straight playing in this novel arrangement of Joshua Fit de Battle of Jericho. Players immediately get into the groove by snapping their fingers on the offbeats. A pizzicato treatment of the melody progressively builds until the whole ensemble is using a full bow. Everyone gets melodic material and the audience is sure to chuckle with the sudden pizzicato ending.

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Additional Details
Series: FJH Developing Strings
Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.
SKU: 98-DST6065

More about this title

About the Arranger: David Shaffer

David Shaffer has built a reputation for accessible yet musically engaging arrangements that speak to young ensembles. His work across multiple genres demonstrates an ear for what makes music come alive in educational settings, balancing technical interest with the realities of developing musicians.

Why we love this

Shaffer's arrangement transforms a familiar spiritual into a performance that delights both players and audiences. The progression from snap-rhythm engagement to full orchestral sound keeps everyone invested, and the novelty of pizzicato contrasts with straight bow work gives developing orchestras a genuine sense of compositional wit without demanding virtuosity.

What to expect

Infectious and playful. The snap rhythm invites physical participation, the melody builds warmth and familiarity, and the progressive bow work creates genuine musical transformation. The sudden pizzicato ending lands as a delightful surprise.

Who it's for

String orchestras in Grades 2-3 who want a piece with humor, accessible rhythmic language, and built-in audience appeal. This works well for ensembles that respond to ensemble groove and novelty elements without getting bogged down in technical complexity.

How to get the most out of it

  • Establish the offbeat snap groove clearly in the first rehearsals. This rhythmic anchor lets younger players feel the swing idiom naturally without overthinking.
  • Shape the gradual transition from pizzicato to arco deliberately. Mark your cut-offs and cues so the shift feels intentional rather than accidental.
  • Rehearse the sudden pizzicato ending in isolation. Its comedic effect depends on ensemble precision and confidence in the cutoff.

How to use it

Perfect for a concert closer or as a palate-cleansing novelty in the middle of a program. The light-hearted energy works especially well on family concerts or pops-style programs where audience engagement matters as much as musical depth.

Skills your students will build

  • Swing rhythm and offbeat snapping coordination
  • Transitioning between pizzicato and arco articulation
  • Building dynamic intensity through progressive orchestration
  • Rhythmic precision in ensemble cutoffs

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