overview
This chapter gives a few suggestions on how to listen to and study scores of orchestral work. I provide a list of works, with brief comments, that reduces the huge repertoire of music for orchestra to a workable set of pieces for which scores and recordings are available. Consider this list a starting point in your study of orchestral and chamber music.
- the paradox of learning to write for orchestra – learning to write for orchestra is a challenge. While there are extensive materials for learning and study, opportunities to get your orchestral writing performed are limited.
- suggestions on how to listen to and study scores – you can learn a lot by listening and studying scores. Here are some ideas on the best ways to do that.
- some essential works with brief notes – this is a brief list of what I think are essential orchestral works every writer should know.