Instrumental Music
“Serenade for String Orchestra and Piano”
See Description, Instrumentation, and Reviews at bottom of page.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION: A dramatic and accessible 3-movement work for strings and piano — See the "Description" tab below for more details.
SOUND CLIPS: Coming soon...
SCORING: Medium-to-large string ensemble, with piano obbligato —
See the “Instrumentation” tab below for details.
DURATION: 12:00
DIFFICULTY: This piece is suitable for a professional string ensemble or an advanced youth orchestra.
PRICE: $75 for pdfs of the score and parts
DESCRIPTION
This string piece was written to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Preucil School of Music, a renowned Suzuki Method institution in Iowa City, Iowa. It was premiered at Hancher Auditorium in Iowa City on February 2, 2025.
PROGRAM NOTES:
I was honored to write this piece to help celebrate the Preucil School’s 50th anniversary. I grew up in the School, and I owe my current career in music to the enriching and loving environment it provided me. In the middle of each movement, I wrote a brief fugal section. Many of my pieces have the surprise appearance of a fugue, since I love writing contrapuntal music.
I. Jubilee
This movement is full of excitement and energy, and I chose the name “jubilee” because it means “a specially celebrated anniversary, especially a 50th anniversary.” The main theme is first heard in the violas and cellos, and soon after is taken up by the violins. A brief contrasting section (quieter and more lyrical) presents itself near the end, but the opening theme soon returns, ending the movement on a rousing note.
II. Memories
This slow movement is very lyrical and full of warm emotions. I wanted this music to express my deep love and gratitude to the School and its founders.
III. Scherzo
The final movement is brisk and playful. It is mostly lighthearted, until it suddenly becomes bold and dramatic near the end, closing the piece with decisive vigor.
INSTRUMENTATION
INSTRUMENTATION:
VIOLIN 1: Divides occasionally — a minimum of 8-10 players is recommended
VIOLIN 2: Divides frequently — a minimum of 8-10 players is recommended
VIOLA: Very little divisi — a minimum of 8-10 players is recommended
CELLO: Divides frequently — a minimum of 8-12 players is recommended
DOUBLE BASS: A minimum of 2-3 players is recommended
PIANO (obbligato)
REVIEWS
" 'Jubilee' [movement 1] was a happy and energetic piece. The music was thrilling, inspiring, and filled the whole room. 'Memories' [movement 2] expressed deeper emotions. It evoked feelings of nostalgia and wistfulness. A stunning and powerful movement, the piece brought tears to my eyes. 'Scherzo' [movement 3] ended in a resounding final flourish that was drowned out by hearty applause."
— The Daily Iowan, February 3, 2025
Doris and Bill Preucil have had a profound, positive impact on the international
music community. They've played an integral part in the development of the
Suzuki Method, which has enriched the lives of countless people around the world.