The Nutcracker (Excerpts)

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass, Piano — MarchThis movement should give the impression of toy soldiers on the move. Careful attention should be paid to all articulations and dynamics, especially thexa0crescendo fromxa0p toxa0mf toxa0f.Dance of the Sugarplum FairyIn the original orchestration, this familiar melody is scored for celeste. In performing this arrangement try to keep that light texture in mind. This can be achieved by observing all dynamics and articulations. Thexa0detache bowing in the violins contribute to the gentle nature of this movement.TrepakAgain, dynamics are of primary importance and contrasts occur frequently throughout. For example, m. 1 begins with an accentedxa0f dynamic on the first beat, then immediately drops toxa0p on the second beat. In mm. 33 through 42 the melody is played by the violas and cellos and should be emphasized. Beginning in m.47 the violas are playing a countermelody in half notes. Even though the notes are accented, the melody in the violins should predominate. This arrangement for Young String Orchestra includes some of the most beloved excerpts from Tchaikovsky's original, including the "March of the Toy Soldiers," "Dance of the Sugarplum Fairy," and "Trepak."