Suite in Season

by Melody Bober

Instrumentation
Violin, Cello, Piano
Composed
2012
Publisher
Alfred Music (00-39102); one book for flute, bassoon and piano or violin, cello and piano
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About this piece

The Music Teachers National Association commissioned Suite in Season from Melody Bober for its 2012 convention [1]. Its four movements, Autumn Ballade, Winter Romance, Spring Jazz and Summer Latin, each take a different musical style to match the season [1][2]. Bober wrote it for flute, bassoon and piano, with an alternate version for violin, cello and piano whose phrasing and bowings are adapted for strings [1][2]. Either version can add the optional percussion part in the last movement [1]. Alfred rates it Late Intermediate and describes it as within reach of high school players [1].
  1. alfred.com
  2. content.alfred.com

Technical overview

No technical overview is available yet.

Level rubric

Late Intermediate

Left Hand

  • Master positions up to 7th.
  • Use 5th–7th positions for high notes; early thumb position basics.
  • Learn treble clef for 4th, 5th, 6th positions.
  • Practice complex shifting with guide‑finger techniques.
  • Manage upper extensions; play double stops (thirds, fourths, sixths) with consistency.
  • Use continuous, selectively applied vibrato.

Right Hand

  • Develop advanced bow strokes: deliberate ricochet & controlled up‑bow staccato.
  • Execute quick string crossings & precise chord articulations.
  • Achieve wide dynamic range while maintaining tone.
  • Seamless transitions between spiccato and legato.
  • Execute multiple stops/chord rolls rapidly.

Rhythm & Musicality

  • Increased complexity: fast passages, intricate syncopation.
  • Detailed phrasing & structure; shape long phrases with rubato.
  • Combine expressive dynamics, vibrato & precise bowing techniques.
  • Further refine ensemble sensitivity & leadership.

Levels are approximate guides, not strict requirements.