Rhythm 'n' Blues: Score
By Soon Hee Newbold
Grade: 1
Item: 98-DST6109S
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Description
Experience an entirely new and fun side of nationally known composer Soon Hee Newbold. Opening with a catchy melody and a blues line in the cellos and basses, this piece is perfect as a lighter selection on your next concert. Soon Hee even creates a fabulous stereo effect with the entire orchestra stomping, clapping, and snapping their fingers. Sure to be a hit!
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Additional Details
Series:
FJH Beginning Strings
Publisher:
The FJH Music Company, Inc.
SKU:
98-DST6109S
More about this title
About the Composer: Soon Hee Newbold
Soon Hee Newbold draws compositional inspiration from the diverse musical traditions she has encountered throughout her career as a performer and conductor across North America, Europe, and Asia. Beginning formal study at age five on piano and violin at seven, she built a foundation that would support her work with ensembles at every skill level, from professional orchestras performing at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center to beginning students in elementary schools.
Why we love this
Newbold writes with genuine understanding of what Grade 1 orchestras can achieve without condescension. The blues idiom feels authentic rather than forced, the rhythmic elements (stomping, clapping, snapping) unite the ensemble in a way that builds community, and the stereo effect creates a memorable moment that students will want to perfect and audiences will genuinely enjoy.
What to expect
Rhythmically energetic and playful, with enough blues character to feel sophisticated without requiring advanced harmonic literacy. The combination of a memorable melody, a grooving bass line, and moments of participatory body percussion creates an infectious spirit that both players and listeners find immediately accessible.
Who it's for
Beginning string orchestras seeking repertoire that teaches solid fundamentals while keeping rehearsals engaging and fun. This Grade 1 piece works equally well for young students still building ensemble awareness and for adult community orchestras that value musicality with lighter programming.
How to get the most out of it
- Establish the blues groove in the cello and bass line first during sectional rehearsals. Once that foundation locks in, the melodic voices will sit naturally on top.
- Coordinate the body percussion (stomping, clapping, snapping) as carefully as you would pitched entrances. Mark exact counts in the score and have each section practice independently before combining.
- Balance the catchy opening melody so it sits comfortably above the blues line without drowning out the accompaniment texture.
- Use the stereo effect moment as a confidence builder. By the time your ensemble reaches this passage, they have already mastered the harder material, so let them enjoy the playfulness and energy.
How to use it
Program this on a concert where you want to shift the energy and show your audience the lighter side of your orchestra's personality. It pairs well with more serious repertoire, serving as an effective palate cleanser or a joyful closer that sends audiences home smiling.
Skills your students will build
- Blues idiom and swing rhythms
- Ensemble cohesion through rhythmic coordination
- Balance and blend in layered textures (melody over bass line)
- Rhythmic precision with body percussion
- Confidence performing lighter, character-driven repertoire