Orchestra Expressions(tm) provides music educators at all levels with easy-to-use, exciting tools to meet daily classroom challenges and bring new vibrancy and depth to teaching music. The lessons were written based on the National Standards for the Arts in Music -- not retro-fitted to the Standards. The program is music literacy-based and satisfies reading and writing mandates in orchestra class. The pedagogy involves a "four-fingers-down" start for every instrument and separate but simultaneous development of both hands. Each student book features an attractive full-color interior with easy-to-read notes and includes: -A 59-track accompaniment CD that covers Units 1-15 (a second CD covering Units 16-33 is available separately, individually as item 00-EMCO2006CD or in a 25-pack as item 00-EMCO2007CD) -Historical notes on some of the most notable composers of orchestral music -A thorough glossary of musical terms -Scales and warm-up exercises Future reprints may be printed with black and white interiors. This title is available in SmartMusic.

Learning Together consists of sequential unison repertoire for string instruments of the orchestra and is intended for use in string classes, group ensembles, and private lesson settings. Harmony parts and bass lines complete the arrangements and are composed so that any mixed string ensemble, as well as ensembles of like instruments, can perform the pieces. Piano accompaniments are included and can be added to any of these combinations. Performance possibilities include individual solo or unison groups, class ensembles, and district or festival sized orchestras. The Learning Together repertoire can be used to establish solo technique, introduce ensemble skills, develop aural skills, and can serve as a foundation for learning to read music. Each instrument book comes with a CD that includes solo performances, string ensemble performances, and piano accompaniment tracks of the featured repertoire. The authors of Learning Together are award-winning teachers with over 100 years of combined recognized success. They share extensive experience as performers, conductors, clinicians, and studio and classroom teachers. This book demonstrates their commitment to providing rich musical experiences for all students in classroom and studio settings.