The Reel Deal: String Orchestra Conductor Score & Parts

This reel captures something often missing from string orchestra repertoire at this level: genuine rhythmic swagger and harmonic surprise. Bernotas distributes the melody across the full ensemble rather than isolating it in first violins, which means every section gets a moment in the spotlight and students stay engaged throughout. The optional cajon part transforms a straightforward Irish-flavored folk piece into something that feels authentically percussive without requiring specialized technique.

The Reel Deal pulses with the energy of a traditional Irish fiddle tune but written in a way that feels fresh and contemporary. Its D major key and surprising harmonic turns keep the listener engaged beyond what a straightforward reel would offer, creating a piece that's both familiar enough to be inviting and unexpected enough to be genuinely musical.

This piece works well for developing string orchestras at the Grade 3 level who have solid fundamentals and are ready for something with character and originality. Directors programming festivals or concerts will find an exciting closer that gives every section meaningful playing time and a tune audiences remember.

• Pay attention to the bowings and fingerings provided; they're written to guide students toward the idiomatic lift and snap that gives a reel its character rather than letting it sound metronomic.
• If you include the cajon, rehearse it separately first so the player understands the rhythmic pocket before layering it into full ensemble balance.
• The surprising harmonies deserve clarity from your middle voices; make sure violas and cellos aren't buried, especially when they support the harmonic shifts.

This is an ideal festival or concert finale: it's short enough to anchor the program without dominating, energetic enough to send the audience out smiling, and substantial enough to feel like a real accomplishment for your students. You could also program it alongside other folk-inspired arrangements to create a mini concert set that celebrates the breadth of string orchestra literature.

• Executing stylistically appropriate bowing techniques for folk music idioms
• Playing primary and supporting melodic roles within the ensemble
• Navigating unexpected harmonic movements and maintaining intonation through chromatic shifts
• Ensemble balance when multiple sections share the melody
• Rhythmic precision and articulation in reel style