Toy Symphony

Description

This charming three movement work is always an audlence winner, not only for holiday concerts but year-round. The actual composer is in dispute. Some say Franz Joseph Haydn (as we have) and some say Leopold Mozart. Whoever wrote it, we are all grateful. It is a wonderful vehicle for teaching Classical style, good phrasing practices and effective dynamics to young string players.

In it’s original form, the viola is excluded. I have addressed this deplorable state of affairs. In addition, more toy instrument parts are included giving the option for an expanded performance. The minimum of toy parts needed is Cuckoo, Nightingale/ Quail, Trumpet and Ratchet (or rattle). It is certainly possible and not detrimental to double any or all the parts. The more the merrier, and accuracy is not the main goal, though the Cuckoo/Quail really does need a music reader. The hilarity just increases if a Principal, a Counselor, a Coach or the Mayor is drafted for the event.

Toy Trumpets and Drums are easy to find. Primary colors are best and plastic is great. The Trumpet is actually supposed to sound a G but this is not very important.

A Cuckoo and a Nightingale are whistles available from a regular full service music store. They are the most critical parts to be accurate and the Nightingale is actually a rather diffucult part. The whistle has a reservoir for water and getting just the right amount is tricky. If too much is used, then the player and everyone in close proximity will get a shower. If no water is used, it will not warble.

The Rattle is a ratchet which is a “normal” percussion instrument. A small set of jingle bells also works on the Rattle part but is not nearly as obnoxious. Either toy Castanets or a small Tambourine also work but are optional.

A really small Triangle should be used (preferably played by a very tall person).

Toy Cymbals are available though can be difficult to find. They should be of about a 6-8 inch diameter and played with great gusto.

Above all, have a great time with this music. Let your creativity loose to fit your circumstances. It can be one of the most popular pieces you will ever program.

Published by: RBC Publications