Sprites: Score
By Almon C. Bock II
Grade: 2.5
Item: 00-PR-0003843
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Description
A sprite is a small or elusive supernatural being such as an elf or pixie. This piece is evocative of just such beings. It is playful in character, portraying images of these beings as they dance about and frolic in their own spaces---be that wood, water, fields, or even in our imagination. These sprites invite you to play with them as you listen to the music.
Don't just read it, hear it, play along with it, and watch your students grow with it. In MakeMusic Cloud, Sprites: Score comes alive with professional accompaniment, adjustable tempo, and built-in practice tools that turn solo practice into real progress.
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Additional Details
Series:
Highland/Etling String Orchestra
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
130
SKU:
00-PR-0003843
More about this title
About the Composer: Almon C. Bock
Almon C. Bock has contributed significantly to the string orchestra repertoire, particularly in works designed for developing ensembles. His compositions balance accessibility with musical substance, creating pieces that allow younger players to experience genuine artistry without excessive technical demands.
Bock's approach to program music—especially his depictions of natural and fantastical subjects—demonstrates a gift for orchestral color and narrative clarity. His works have become staples in school orchestra curricula across the country.
Why we love this
Bock captures genuine playfulness without resorting to heavy orchestration or complex harmonies. String orchestras at this level rarely find concert repertoire that feels this theatrical and imaginative while remaining solidly within their technical grasp. The piece works equally well on a casual school concert or a festival program because it engages audiences immediately.
What to expect
Sprites darts between moments of mischievous energy and quieter, almost sneaky passages where unseen beings seem to pause before darting off again. The orchestration sparkles without demanding virtuosity, creating a sense of movement and light that feels genuinely alive rather than saccharine.
Who it's for
String orchestras at the intermediate level, particularly those building confidence in light concert repertoire with personality. Directors seeking a piece that captures young musicians' imagination while avoiding tired fairy-tale clichés will find real substance here.
How to get the most out of it
- Lean into rhythmic clarity in the opening sections. These sprites move with purpose, so even simple figures benefit from crisp articulation across all sections.
- Balance transparency with expression. The writing often gives melody and accompaniment equal visual weight on the page, so conscious balance in rehearsal prevents any line from disappearing.
- Let the dynamic contrasts breathe. Bock uses shifts between playful and ethereal moments; rushing through these transitions flattens the imagery.
- Encourage your strings to listen for the dance-like quality in the phrasing. This isn't pastoral music; these beings are active and mischievous.
How to use it
This piece excels as an opening selection on spring or winter concerts, especially programs aimed at younger student audiences or family crowds. It also pairs well with folk-inspired or atmospheric string repertoire, offering contrast without jarring stylistic whiplash.
Skills your students will build
- Maintaining rhythmic precision in staccato and pizzicato figures
- Balancing independent melodic lines within an ensemble texture
- Responding to quick dynamic and character shifts
- Shaping phrasing in lighter, dance-based musical contexts
- Coordinating bow changes cleanly across the section