Rock Riffs: Violin 1

Name: Rock Riffs: Violin 1
Brand: Alfred Music
SKU: 98-PC-DST6254_VN1
Price: 7.00 USD
Availability: InStock

By Soon Hee Newbold

Grade: 1.5

Item: 98-PC-DST6254_VN1

Digital Download

$7.00

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Let your hair down and rock out with this easy piece for strings! A fun syncopated groove with optional drum set forms the background for the infectious melody. First violins are introduced to low 2 and the rest of the ensemble has plenty to do. Stop chorus and all... this is hard rock-string style!

Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Rock Riffs: Violin 1 comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.

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Series: FJH Beginning Strings

Publisher: The FJH Music Company, Inc.

SKU: 98-PC-DST6254_VN1

More about this title

About the Composer: Soon Hee Newbold

Soon Hee Newbold draws on her multicultural background and extensive global experiences to craft distinctive compositions that bridge classical and contemporary idioms. She began piano at five and violin at seven, eventually performing as a concert artist across professional ensembles worldwide. Her catalog spans from Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center to elementary school stages, reflecting a gift for writing at all levels.

Newbold has guest conducted orchestras and bands throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, and regularly serves as a keynote speaker and clinician at major festivals. Her work extends beyond the concert stage into film and recording projects, where her compositional voice continues to reach diverse audiences.

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Why we love this

Newbold writes with an instinct for what makes young players excited to come to rehearsal. The syncopated groove and rock energy feel genuinely contemporary, not condescending, while the orchestration gives every player meaningful work. Adding low 2 to first violin parts challenges developing musicians without overwhelming them.

What to expect

Infectious energy with a street-smart attitude. The syncopated groove propels forward with swagger, the melody sits somewhere between a rock anthem and a string orchestra staple, and the whole ensemble feels like it's in on the same joke. This is music that makes you want to move.

Who it's for

Grade 1.5 string orchestras hungry for contemporary repertoire that speaks their language. Players who find traditional classical fare a bit stiff will connect with the rock vernacular and the permission to have genuine fun in rehearsal.

How to get the most out of it

Lock in the rhythm section first. The drum set (optional but recommended) anchors the groove; have percussion lock the pulse with bass before layers are added.
Shape the melody with a slight forward lean on syncopated hits. Resist the urge to press or rush; let the inherent swing of the line breathe naturally.
Balance the harmonic foundation. Violas and cellos carry the color here; make sure their sustained figures aren't buried under the melodic energy.
Encourage first violins to own the low 2 fingering confidently. This isn't a technical hurdle; it's a gateway to repertoire depth and independence.

How to use it

Pair this with a classical standard on a spring concert to show the range and relevance of young string players. It works as a closer (the "stop chorus" instruction suggests a powerful ending) or as a palate cleanser between heavier works.

Skills your students will build

Reading and executing syncopated rhythms in a fast-moving groove
First violin technique: low 2 position and independence from upper strings
Balancing melody against rhythmic accompaniment in a contemporary idiom
Ensemble precision under optional percussion accompaniment
Articulation and style choices that reflect rock and popular music phrasing