Portal Gates String Orchestra Level 2 Score/Parts

Portal Gates String Orchestra Level 2 Score/Parts

Double Bass, Piano, Viola, String Orchestra

Envision the majestic gateway to a mythical kingdom, reminiscent of the legendary Camelot. Composer Larry Clark channels this grandeur in his powerful composition for string ensembles. Drawing on intervals of fifths and fourths, the piece starts with a bold and celebratory main theme. It transitions into a beautifully lush B section and concludes with a vigorous, minor-key C section.

The music's sophistication is perfectly suited for young musicians, providing both a challenge and an enjoyable experience. Larry Clark’s works remain widely embraced for their enduring appeal.

The title 'Portal Gates' reflects the prevalent use of fourths and fifths, evoking the grandeur of monumental archways like Paris's Arc de Triomphe, renowned for its commanding architecture and intricate sculptures.

The composition begins with quartal harmonies from descending fourths, leading to a main theme of ascending fifths with robust open fifths in the accompaniment, contrasted by a smooth, legato second theme rich in harmonies and flowing counterpoints. The music intensifies as it ventures into the relative minor, weaving dramatic pauses with intense fragments of the theme, and gradually returns to the serene B theme, culminating in a reflective coda that echoes the introductory harmonies. Larry Clark expresses his delight in creating this piece, hoping it will enrich the repertoire and inspire both educators and students. 

About Carl Fischer Young String Orchestra Series

This series of Grade 2/Grade 2.5 pieces is designed for second and third year ensembles.

The pieces in this series are characterised by:
1. Occasionally extending to third position
2. Keys carefully considered for appropriate difficulty
3. Addition of separate 2nd violin and viola parts
4. Viola T.C. part included
5. Increase in independence of parts over beginning levels