Old Molly Hare: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

$47.00 USD

Old Molly Hare: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

Name: Old Molly Hare: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 00-23379
Price: 47.00 USD
Availability: InStock

Traditional / arr. Andrew H. Dabczynski

Grade: 2.5

Item: 00-23379

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In this fresh arrangement of a traditional, old-time fiddle favorite, every member of the orchestra gets lots of chances to play the up-beat tune. The straight-forward melody is approachable by all, and the authentic-sounding variations and key changes will challenge even advanced players. A series of soloistic "breaks" can be performed by individuals or entire sections, and the inclusion of optional chord symbols provide opportunities for improvisation. This creative setting of Old Molly Hare will provide motivating learning experiences for students, and will add invigorating old-time style and drive to any concert program.

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Old Molly Hare: String 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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Series: Highland/Etling String Alternatives

Publisher: Alfred Music

Page Count: 128

UPC: 038081258843

SKU: 00-23379

More about this title

About the Arranger: Andrew H. Dabczynski

Andrew H. Dabczynski served as Emeritus Professor of Music Education at Brigham Young University, where he founded and directed the BYU New Horizons Orchestra, an ensemble designed both as a performance outlet for adult beginning string players and as a teaching laboratory for string educators. His contributions to music education earned him BYU's Joseph E. White Fellowship for Teaching and Learning, as well as recognition from the Utah chapter of the American String Teachers Association as Higher Education Teacher of the Year in 2005 and again in 2014 for Outstanding Contributions to Music Education.

Throughout his career, Dabczynski held positions at the Eastman School of Music and in public school systems across New York and Michigan, where he served as both teacher and administrator. As a performer, he has played viola with several regional orchestras including the Rochester Philharmonic and Hartford Symphony, and was a member of the Colden String Quartet during its residency at Western Michigan University. His pedagogical expertise is evident in the String Explorer method series, co-authored with other educators and published by Alfred. A longstanding interest in folk music and ethnomusicology, particularly fiddling traditions, has shaped much of his research and compositional work.

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Why we love this

Dabczynski has crafted an arrangement that respects the fiddle tune's spirited character while giving every player genuine musical work to do. The balance between accessibility and challenge is rare at this grade level; students get to experience key changes and soloistic passages that feel earned rather than imposed, and the optional chord symbols open the door to improvisation without requiring it.

What to expect

Energetic and unpretentious, with the rollicking charm of an old-time fiddle session. The melody bounces along with infectious optimism, and the variations and key changes add surprise without losing the tune's essential character. You hear the open strings and driving rhythms of traditional fiddling, but arranged in a way that respects the training level of young orchestral players.

Who it's for

String orchestras at the grade 2 to 2.5 level, particularly those ready to explore folk repertoire and stylistic diversity beyond classical excerpts. This works well for groups that include confident beginners and developing intermediate players who benefit from music that lets everyone contribute meaningfully.

How to get the most out of it

Treat the optional breaks as teaching moments. Whether you assign them to soloists or sections, ask students to listen to traditional fiddle recordings beforehand so they understand the stylistic inflections and rhythmic liberties that make these passages come alive.
Pay attention to the rhythmic drive. Old-time fiddle music sits on the beat in a particular way; work with your rhythm section to maintain that infectious forward momentum without rushing, especially during key changes where ensembles often lose confidence.
Experiment with the chord symbols in rehearsal to find moments where improvisation feels natural and low-stakes. Even brief harmonic exploration builds student confidence and deepens their understanding of the tune's structure.
Use the variations and key changes as a chance to discuss how traditional musicians adapt and personalize repertoire. This arrangement models that practice beautifully.

How to use it

Program this alongside classical and contemporary repertoire to show the range and versatility of the string orchestra. It's an excellent choice for a concert that celebrates American or traditional music, and the upbeat energy makes it a natural program closer or a spirited opening that energizes the audience and builds ensemble morale.