Suite Concertante, No. 2: Siciliana Notturna: String Orchestra, Conductor Score & Parts

This movement gives you access to a sophisticated string orchestra work with harp that stands apart from typical concert repertoire at this level. The shift from Reed's original cello ensemble scoring to this lush string orchestration opens up programming possibilities for groups seeking music with genuine lyrical depth and mature harmonic language.

Nocturnal and introspective, with the gentle rocking motion of a siciliana that evokes Southern European evening landscapes. The harp and string textures create an intimate, almost chamber-like atmosphere despite the full orchestration.

String orchestra directors seeking a single-movement work with genuine artistic substance and an evening-appropriate character. This movement suits intermediate to advanced groups comfortable with sustained legato writing and independent inner voices.

• Balance the harp's role carefully during rehearsal; it functions both as harmonic support and as a textural anchor, so clarity in the string parts will let it sit naturally without forcing.
• Attend to the siciliana rhythm (6/8 lilting quality) as a unifying element; even in legato passages, keep the rhythmic pulse singing rather than sagging.
• Use separate rehearsal on first violin and cello lines to establish the primary melodic conversation before bringing full sections together.

Program this as a palette-cleansing centerpiece between more energetic works, or pair it with other movements from Reed's full Suite Concertante orchestration (available separately) to create a complete evening of his string writing.

• Sustaining tone quality across dynamic changes in legato passages
• Balancing multiple independent melodic lines within a single section
• Responding to harp accompaniment while maintaining ensemble cohesion
• Interpreting siciliana rhythmic character in 6/8 meter