SKU: A0.549690

Duration: ca. 1:42, 52 measures, Score: 7 pages, solo part: 2 pages, piano part: 4 pages. A popular Christmas favorite from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite.

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky is probably the most popular of the great composers in America. His music certainly appeals to musicians. Likewise, it appeals even to folks who don’t normally listen to serious music. This is probably because of his most noteworthy melodies. Above all, he writes with great emotion. This certainly makes a most noteworthy if not an unforgettable impact.

Education

First of all, He attended classes at the Russian Musical Society. Even more, He also attended the St. Petersburg Conservatory. There he studied music theory with Nikolai Zaremba. He also consequently studied composition with Anton Rubenstein. It seems like Rubenstein came under criticism from a group of Russian composers known as the Five.

The Five

The Five certainly rejected Western musical influences. They rather sought to use elements from Russian music. They furthermore wanted to use more exotic musical materials.

Western Techniques

More than other Russian composers, Tchaikovsky studied modern Western music. He certainly develops his music like the European masters. So, rather than repeating a motive, he moves to a new key. He then introduces a different theme in the new key. Hence, he maintained his independence from the Five. Even more, he became the first Russian composer of international stature.

Influences

Tchaikovsky was probably influenced in his ballet scoring by Léo Delibes. Richard Wagner influenced his symphonic writing. Tchaikovsky’s most famous works include the 1812 Overture, The Nutcracker Suite, and Swan Lake. Also famous are the Violin Concerto in D and the six symphonies. The greatest of the six symphonies may be No. 6, the Pathétique.

Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a

The Nutcracker Suite is a ballet that was performed for the first time in December 1892 in St. Petersburg. To begin with, the original ballet failed to attract a positive reception. However, the ballet suite became probably one of the most popular of all of Tchaikovsky’s works. The ballet suite became even more famous in the 1960s. It is now performed all over the world, particularly during the Christmas season.

SKU: A0.914716

A rousing arrangement of God Save the Queen, the national anthem of the United Kingdom. The melody is also used for patriotic purposes in the United States, where it is known as My Country 'Tis of Thee..

SKU: A0.1212969

The sheet music for The Star-Spangled Banner is a musical composition that became the national anthem of the United States of America. The music was written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, during the War of 1812, when he witnessed the Battle of Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland. The music is known for its catchy melody and patriotic lyrics, which celebrate the bravery and resilience of the American people during times of war. The sheet music of The Star-Spangled Banner is an iconic symbol of the American nation.

SKU: A0.1212970

The sheet music for The Star-Spangled Banner is a musical composition that became the national anthem of the United States of America. The music was written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, during the War of 1812, when he witnessed the Battle of Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland. The music is known for its catchy melody and patriotic lyrics, which celebrate the bravery and resilience of the American people during times of war. The sheet music of The Star-Spangled Banner is an iconic symbol of the American nation.

SKU: A0.549849

Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (Awake, the voice is calling us) from Cantata BWV 140. Duration: ca. 4:00, Score: 6 pages, solo part 1 page, piano part: 4 pages. Program this for church services during the Easter season, weddings, or as a recital encore. www.jamesguthrie.com

Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme

(Awake, the Voice is calling us) also known as: Sleepers Awake

Bach composed his church cantata Wachet auf (BWV 140) as part of his second annual cantata cycle covering the entire annual church calendar. It is based on the hymn of the same name by Philipp Nicolai (1599). The hymn text covers the readings for the 27th Sunday after Trinity. Bach designed the cantata in seven movements, setting the stanzas in various forms. Among these forms are the chorale fantasia, the chorale prelude, and a four-part chorale. He casts the new lyrics as recitatives – in a manner similar to the opera.

Fourth Movement

Bach writes the fourth movement, Zion hört die Wächter singen (Zion hears the watchmen singing), in the style of a chorale prelude with the chorale phrases performed as a strict cantus firmus. The phrases seem to enter at times erratically against the famous lyrical melody. The violins play this melody in unison as a foil against the cantus phrases. The violin melody is so independent and complete that when the cantus melody appears it catches the listener at times totally off-guard. Bach later transcribed this movement for organ (BWV 645). This transcription became No. 1 of the Six Schübler Chorales.

Bach Overview

First of all, Johann Sebastian Bach is maybe the greatest composer in music history. Certainly, he was prolific. As a result, everyone has heard of his works. Furthermore, these works number well over a thousand. It seems like people are probably most familiar with the instrumental works such as the Brandenburg Concertos, and the Goldberg Variations. But, similarly famous are such noteworthy works as the Well-Tempered Clavier, the Musical Offering, and certainly the Art of Fugue. Seems like his most famous vocal works include the most noteworthy Mass in B Minor. Also, most noteworthy, though, are the St. John Passion, and certainly the Christmas Oratorio.

 History

Bach came from a long line of musicians and above all, composers. Consequently, he, first of all, pursued a career as a church organist. So as a result, he gained employment in various Protestant churches in Germany. For a while, he worked as a court musician in Weimar and Köthen. Here he probably developed his organ style and likewise his chamber music style. Eventually, he, therefore, gained an appointment as Cantor of St. Thomas in Leipzig. Here he worked until difficulties with his employer ultimately drove him away. The King of Poland finally appointed him as court composer.

 Style

It seems like Bach created a fascinating new international style. He synthesized elements of the most noteworthy European music ideas into his new style. Even more, this new style was probably his synthesis of European musical rhythm and form. Furthermore, he demonstrated a complete mastery of counterpoint and motivic development. His sense of harmonic organization probably propelled him to the top.

Revival              

Mendelssohn conducted a Bach revival in the nineteenth century. His effort probably helped to re-familiarize the public with the magnitude of Bach’s works. During this period, scholars published many noteworthy Bach biographies. Moreover, Wolfgang Schmieder published the BWV (Bach Werke Verzeichnis). As a result, this is now the official catalog of his entire artistic output. The BWV number allows us to locate a work in the catalog. Sometimes scholars will simply use an S (Schmieder) as an abbreviation.

SKU: IZ.9780976508106

9 x 12 in inches.

Squeak Big teaches aspiring clarinetists the fundamentals necessary for success on the instrument through conceptual development and practical exercises. It will undoubtedly become an important resource for aspiring clarinetists and educators worldwide.


For years, Dr. Paglialonga has helped his students improve by creating exercises and explanations to address fundamental playing issues. These materials circulated throughout the clarinet community, leading to numerous requests for materials to address other specific problems. Squeak Big answers those requests, making these materials available to a wider audience in a simple, easy-to-use format.

Squeak Big is filled with healthy, concise, no-nonsense advice, as well as some great tips and tricks. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to advance their relationship with the clarinet. (Samuel Caviezel - Associate Principal Clarinet, Philadelphia Orchestra)

Squeak Big is a wonderful resource for student and teacher alike. In it, Dr. Paglialonga provides helpful insights on clarinet playing from the fundamentals of producing a beautiful sound to hints on practicing in real life situations. His methodical approach helps to demystify clarinet playing and is geared towards helping improve both technique and musicianship. A must-have for any clarinetist's library! (Benjamin Lulich - Principal Clarinet, Cleveland Orchestra)

Squeak Big is full of useful information. I highly recommend it to anyone who's looking for practical ways to become a better clarinetist! (Alexander Fiterstein - Prominent International Soloist)

I would recommend Squeak Big to anyone wanting to improve or better understand the fundamentals of sound clarinet playing. (Carey Bell - Principal Clarinet, San Francisco Symphony)

Phillip Paglialonga has written a thoughtful and detailed treatise on playing the clarinet. He communicates from a thorough knowledge of the instrument and its workings. This volume is a valuable reference for teachers and performers alike, replete with numerous practical suggestions and exercises. If only every clarinet player could digest the information Dr. Paglialonga sets forth herein, good solid foundations would be formed and bad habits easily prevented. (John Bruce Yeh - Assistant Principal Clarinet, Chicago Symphony)

Squeak Big provides valuable advice for players at every stage of development, with easy practical methods, useful exercises, and even a bit of historical context. I've already been able to incorporate many of these ideas, not only into my teaching, but also into my own playing! (Ralph Skiano - Principal Clarinet, Detroit Symphony)

Squeak Big is excellent and I'm sure it will be of great value to many players. Phillip Paglialonga explains so many of the fundamentals in a very clear, concise way. Bravo! (Larry Guy - Prominent Pedagogue).

SKU: A0.549758

Duration: ca. 3:15 Score: 10 pages, solo part: 2 pages, piano part: 4 pages. Tchaikovsky paints a very mysterious mood in this favorite masterpiece from the Nutcracker Suite. It is also a traditional Christmas favorite.

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky is probably the most popular of the great composers in America. His music certainly appeals to musicians. Likewise, it appeals even to folks who don’t normally listen to serious music. This is probably because of his most noteworthy melodies. Above all, he writes with great emotion. This certainly makes a most noteworthy if not an unforgettable impact.

Education

First of all, He attended classes at the Russian Musical Society. Even more, He also attended the St. Petersburg Conservatory. There he studied music theory with Nikolai Zaremba. He also consequently studied composition with Anton Rubenstein. It seems like Rubenstein came under criticism from a group of Russian composers known as the Five.

The Five

The Five certainly rejected Western musical influences. They rather sought to use elements from Russian music. They furthermore wanted to use more exotic musical materials.

Western Techniques

More than other Russian composers, Tchaikovsky studied modern Western music. He certainly develops his music like the European masters. So, rather than repeating a motive, he moves to a new key. He then introduces a different theme in the new key. Hence, he maintained his independence from the Five. Even more, he became the first Russian composer of international stature.

Influences

Tchaikovsky was probably influenced in his ballet scoring by Léo Delibes. Richard Wagner influenced his symphonic writing. Tchaikovsky’s most famous works include the 1812 Overture, The Nutcracker Suite, and Swan Lake. Also famous are the Violin Concerto in D and the six symphonies. The greatest of the six symphonies may be No. 6, the Pathétique.

Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a

The Nutcracker Suite is a ballet that was performed for the first time in December 1892 in St. Petersburg. To begin with, the original ballet failed to attract a positive reception. However, the ballet suite became probably one of the most popular of all of Tchaikovsky’s works. The ballet suite became even more famous in the 1960s. It is now performed all over the world, particularly during the Christmas season.

SKU: A0.549712

Duration: ca. 58, score: 9 pages, solo part: 2 pages, piano part: 3 pages.This piece would be a perfect recital encore - short, energetic - leave your audience wanting more. Also, program this for your Christmas pageant.

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky is probably the most popular of the great composers in America. His music certainly appeals to musicians. Likewise, it appeals even to folks who don’t normally listen to serious music. This is probably because of his most noteworthy melodies. Above all, he writes with great emotion. This certainly makes a most noteworthy if not an unforgettable impact.

Education

First of all, He attended classes at the Russian Musical Society. Even more, He also attended the St. Petersburg Conservatory. There he studied music theory with Nikolai Zaremba. He also consequently studied composition with Anton Rubenstein. It seems like Rubenstein came under criticism from a group of Russian composers known as the Five.

The Five

The Five certainly rejected Western musical influences. They rather sought to use elements from Russian music. They furthermore wanted to use more exotic musical materials.

Western Techniques

More than other Russian composers, Tchaikovsky studied modern Western music. He certainly develops his music like the European masters. So, rather than repeating a motive, he moves to a new key. He then introduces a different theme in the new key. Hence, he maintained his independence from the Five. Even more, he became the first Russian composer of international stature.

Influences

Tchaikovsky was probably influenced in his ballet scoring by Léo Delibes. Richard Wagner influenced his symphonic writing. Tchaikovsky’s most famous works include the 1812 Overture, The Nutcracker Suite, and Swan Lake. Also famous are the Violin Concerto in D and the six symphonies. The greatest of the six symphonies may be No. 6, the Pathétique.

Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a

The Nutcracker Suite is a ballet that was performed for the first time in December 1892 in St. Petersburg. To begin with, the original ballet failed to attract a positive reception. However, the ballet suite became probably one of the most popular of all of Tchaikovsky’s works. The ballet suite became even more famous in the 1960s. It is now performed all over the world, particularly during the Christmas season.

SKU: A0.549357

This arrangement follows the original Bach prelude and so excludes the extra measure that Schwencke introduced in 1783. If you prefer the extra measure, please see Bach-Gounod: Ave Maria, Schwencke version for Alto Clarinet & Piano, S0.661759. The convenient 1st & 2nd endings provide an option for extended performance with minimal page turns for the accompanist. The duration with repeat is about 4:50. Score: 6 pages. Solo part: 1 page, piano part: 4 pages. Based on Prelude #1 in C Major from the Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1. Well suited for church meditations or school programs or recital encores.

Ave Maria

Ave Maria is a Catholic prayer that consequently asks for the mother of Jesus (Mary) to intercede. Charles Gounod composed a famous version of the Ave Maria. He was a French Romantic composer who overlaid a new melody on an existing Bach chord progression. The progression is from Bach’s Prelude No. 1 from Well-Tempered Clavier I. This version, as well as Schubert’s version, have become essential items at weddings, masses, and funerals.

Bach Overview

First of all, Johann Sebastian Bach is maybe the greatest composer in music history. Certainly, he was prolific. As a result, everyone has heard of his works. Furthermore, these works number well over a thousand. It seems like people are probably most familiar with instrumental works such as the Brandenburg Concertos, and the Goldberg Variations. But, similarly famous are such noteworthy works as the Well-Tempered Clavier, the Musical Offering, and the Art of Fugue. Seems like his most famous vocal works include the most noteworthy Mass in B Minor. Also, most noteworthy, though, are the St. John Passion, and certainly the Christmas Oratorio.

 History

Bach came from a long line of musicians and above all, composers. Consequently, he, first of all, pursued a career as a church organist. So as a result, he gained employment in various Protestant churches in Germany. For a while, he worked as a court musician in Weimar and Köthen. Here he probably developed his organ style and likewise his chamber music style. Eventually, he gained an appointment as Cantor of St. Thomas in Leipzig. Here he worked until difficulties with his employer ultimately drove him away. The King of Poland finally appointed him as court composer.

 Style

It seems like Bach created a fascinating new international style. He synthesized elements of the most noteworthy European music ideas into his new style. Even more, this new style was probably his synthesis of European musical rhythm and form. Furthermore, he demonstrated a complete mastery of counterpoint and motivic development. His sense of harmonic organization probably propelled him to the top.

Revival              

Mendelssohn conducted a Bach revival in the nineteenth century. His effort probably helped to re-familiarize the public with the magnitude of Bach’s works. During this period, scholars published many noteworthy Bach biographies. Moreover, Wolfgang Schmieder published the BWV (Bach Werke Verzeichnis). As a result, this is now the official catalog of his entire artistic output. The BWV number allows us to locate a work in the catalog. Sometimes scholars will simply use an S (Schmieder) as an abbreviation for BWV.

 

SKU: A0.1494243

The Last Rose of Summer is a work deeply rooted in Irish culture, originally penned as a poem by the renowned poet and composer Thomas Moore in 1805. Moore, regarded as Ireland’s national poet, was inspired by an 'Old Blush' rose while staying at Jenkinstown Castle in County Kilkenny, Ireland. The poem was published as part of his Irish Melodies collection between 1807 and 1834 and later set to music by fellow Irishman John Stevenson. The song gained widespread popularity and was incorporated into the opera Martha by the German composer Friedrich von Flotow, which premiered in 1847 in Vienna.

This sheet music has been adapted for solo instrument, preserving the original melody by Moore and Stevenson in its essence. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the musician to highlight the purity of the melody, making it easier to perform while maintaining the piece's emotional character. This version is designed to be accessible for beginner to intermediate musicians, enabling an authentic interpretation that respects the traditional nuances of the work.

The Last Rose of Summer captures the essence of melancholy and the passage of time—universal themes reflected in the farewell to the last vestige of a vibrant summer. The melody, paired with Moore’s poetry, evokes a profound sense of loss and longing, with the solitary rose serving as a metaphor for the fleeting nature of life and the seasons. The simplicity and beauty of this piece have made it a classic, perpetuating Irish tradition and touching the hearts of listeners worldwide.

SKU: A0.1494240

The Last Rose of Summer is a work deeply rooted in Irish culture, originally penned as a poem by the renowned poet and composer Thomas Moore in 1805. Moore, regarded as Ireland’s national poet, was inspired by an 'Old Blush' rose while staying at Jenkinstown Castle in County Kilkenny, Ireland. The poem was published as part of his Irish Melodies collection between 1807 and 1834 and later set to music by fellow Irishman John Stevenson. The song gained widespread popularity and was incorporated into the opera Martha by the German composer Friedrich von Flotow, which premiered in 1847 in Vienna.

This sheet music has been adapted for solo instrument, preserving the original melody by Moore and Stevenson in its essence. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the musician to highlight the purity of the melody, making it easier to perform while maintaining the piece's emotional character. This version is designed to be accessible for beginner to intermediate musicians, enabling an authentic interpretation that respects the traditional nuances of the work.

The Last Rose of Summer captures the essence of melancholy and the passage of time—universal themes reflected in the farewell to the last vestige of a vibrant summer. The melody, paired with Moore’s poetry, evokes a profound sense of loss and longing, with the solitary rose serving as a metaphor for the fleeting nature of life and the seasons. The simplicity and beauty of this piece have made it a classic, perpetuating Irish tradition and touching the hearts of listeners worldwide.