Choosing and Purchasing Music for Instrumental Specials

Twenty years ago, only a handful of arrangers were writing pieces specifically for church orchestras. Arrangements from Camp Kirkland (7+ series) and David Winkler (Psalm 150 Publications) were close to the extent of the literature. Well, times have changed! With most large and small Christian music publishers offering hundreds of full orchestra arrangements now available. None of us have church budgets that allow us to purchase every piece of music we see. Here are a few thoughts when looking for orchestra-only arrangements.

When planning your budget, think ahead as to your projected need for the year. Consider the need: seasonal music, such as an Easter Overture for your Passion Play, music for concert settings, an outdoor event, call to worship or offertory music for worship services, special services, such as Lord's Supper and Mother's Day, or thematic music for pastor's sermon series. Keep a good tape and CD demo library. Listening to old demos might reveal a great piece that, for whatever reason, was not purchased the first time around.

Use common sense: Purchase music that is attainable in two to four rehearsals. Do not purchase music (on a consistent basis) that is too easy or too difficult for your players. You must challenge them, but not to the point of frustration (yours and theirs)! Find arrangements that gives every section (or instrument) a challenge and a beauty spot. A challenge spot could be a fast run for the strings or a tricky trumpet articulation or a difficult key signature for the orchestra. A beauty spot could be a lovely F horn countermelody or a chord progression with extended chords (major 7ths or 9ths, minor 9ths or flat 9 chords, etc.). These type arrangements not only sound good but they also help to raise the level of musicianship in your group. Your players will also enjoy playing these pieces again (and sometimes again).