O, America: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
By Brendan Graham / By William Joseph / As performed by Celtic Woman / Arranged by Jim Kazik
Grade: 3-4
Item: 35-PK00135853
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Buy Extra Parts (Digital PDF Download)
| Product | Price | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| O, America - Full Score | $6.00 | |
| O, America - Vocal Solo | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Instrumental Solo - Vln.Fl.Ob | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Instrumental Solo - Viola | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Violin 1 | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Violin 2 | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Violin 3 (Viola Treble Clef) | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Viola | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Cello | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Bass | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Piano | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Percussion 1 | $7.00 | |
| O, America - Percussion 2 | $7.00 |
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More about this title
About the Composer: Brendan Graham
Brendan Graham is an Irish singer and songwriter whose work bridges traditional Celtic music with contemporary songwriting. His compositions for Celtic Woman have reached millions of listeners worldwide, establishing him as a significant figure in modern Celtic music performance and arrangement.
Why we love this
Jim Kazik's arrangement captures the emotional depth of Graham's composition while keeping technical demands reasonable for Grade 3-4 orchestras. The flexibility to feature a solo vocalist or instrumentalist transforms this from a straightforward arrangement into a versatile concert piece that can adapt to your ensemble's strengths.
What to expect
The piece carries a reflective, hopeful quality that honors its Celtic roots while speaking to broader themes of belonging and identity. Kazik's orchestration emphasizes warmth and clarity, creating space for genuine expression rather than virtuosic display.
Who it's for
String orchestras seeking patriotic or themed repertoire with emotional substance beyond typical school concert fare. This works equally well for ensembles looking to feature a strong young soloist or for directors who want to build cohesion across their string sections through sensitive, song-like playing.
How to get the most out of it
- Balance the melodic material across your string sections to prevent the top line from overshadowing the harmonic foundation. Test your voicing in rehearsal to ensure the arrangement breathes as intended.
- Work the phrasing with attention to the vocal qualities embedded in Kazik's writing. Even without a singer, shape your string lines as if you're accompanying a lyrical solo.
- If featuring a soloist, establish clear communication about tempo and dynamic support before rehearsal. The 3:45 duration gives you room to let the melody unfold naturally without rushing.
How to use it
Consider pairing this with other world music repertoire or featuring it as a concert opener that sets an intentional emotional tone. The accessible level and moderate duration make it ideal for spring concerts, cultural heritage programs, or moments when you want your orchestra to sound mature and musical rather than technically showy.
Skills your students will build
- Singing melodic lines with legit phrasing and breath awareness
- Balancing solo and accompaniment textures in an ensemble setting
- Responding to a conductor's shape while maintaining independent rhythmic security
- Interpreting dynamic subtlety and harmonic color in arranged music