Katie O'Hara LaBrie
Composer • Conductor • Clinician
Music For String Orchestra
A Holly Jolly Mixed Up Medley
KJOS (2022)
Grade 4 (+)
The holidays are a time for peace and joy, but they can also be busy, full of family and friends, a flurry of events and the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping. A Holly Jolly Mixed Up Medley by Katie O’Hara LaBrie is just that; an exciting and creative mash-up of all your favorite holiday tunes, with a mixed-meter twist. The piece includes quotes from 11 winter classics... Listen closely, can you spot them all?
*J.W. Pepper Editor's Choice
Alleluia
Alfred: Belwin (2011)
by Ralph Manuel, Arr. LaBrie
Grade 4
A beautiful choral melody reinvented for strings, this work takes the player through a journey of powerful emotion. The opening lyrical theme is a great tool for teaching expressive bow technique as well as chamber playing and phrasing to emulate the original choral text. Imitative counterpoint creates contrast in the sprightly middle section, where all parts interplay and receive importance. Spanning several keys and styles, this piece is sure to keep the interest of and provide a challenge for your students.
*J.W. Pepper Editor's Choice
The Wexford Carol
MakeMusic Publications (2023)
Grade 4
This traditional Irish carol opens with a solo for cello, violin, harp (or a combination thereof) over a distant drone. The tune weaves throughout each section amidst beautiful countermelodies and simple meter changes. After a glorious key change, the music moves to a delicate close. An optional harp part adds color. This arrangement Wexford Carol is guaranteed to be a stunning addition to your winter program or any time of year.