About the Piece

A fun title in ternary form, aimed at developing string students. Imagine a goofy patrol of mice bound for a well-stocked kitchen. There is a cat.....so some adventure and the unexpected prevail! This score may be performed as a unison melody (2nd parts) with piano and/or in its flexible 3-part setting. Pedagogical technical concepts including left-hand pizzicato (assists development of LH moulding, coordination and strength) and first partial harmonics (for release and fingerboard orientation) have been integrated with balanced bowing patterns in simple repetitive rhythmic motives. Parts are engaging and encourage efficient detaché stroke. Piano accompaniment is integral to the texture for performance.

Duration 1:36 approx. Key - D major. Grade 1.5.

About the Composer

Keith Sharp has been string educator in The Gap regional state schools of Brisbane, Australia since 1985. Keith commenced teaching at Brisbane State High School in 2012, where his program focuses on ensemble and group tuition. He enjoys writing imaginative and appealing pieces for string students, many of which are now performed by young players around the world. A selection of the composer’s works is published in the US by The FJH Music Company and Alfreds. Consistently, these educational ensemble pieces have been highlighted as “Editor’s Choice” in the J.W. Pepper Orchestral Music Catalog. Keith holds a Bachelor of Music Degree and a Graduate Diploma of Further Education. He is a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow. In 2006 received a Ryan Recognition Award and in 2013 a “Can Do” Educator of the Year award acknowledging his contribution to music education in the region. Keith is a past President and committee member of AUSTA Queensland, and in 2012 was recognised by AUSTA with a State Award. He regularly appears at schools, music camps and workshops as a guest clinician/composer, teacher and conductor. Keith is co-author of the popular beginner series, Encore On Strings - Music Maestros.