Maverick - a whimsical burlesque

(- a character sketch of my cocker spaniel "Maverick" out in local woodland where the resident squirrels offered much excitement for him....

This piece was originally composed for 13 solo string players [4,3,3,2,1]. I subsequently rescored it for full orchestra which I think better suits the canine character of the music , offering the full palette of sounds of a large symphony orchestra. The 'barks' in particular [Maverick used to bark when nervous or excited....] are more realistic. I like both versions - the intimacy of the original version for string ensemble or the brashness, and the cheekiness, of the orchestrated version:

MAVERICK - the version for full orchestra:

MAVERICK - the original version for 13 strings [4,3,3,2,1]

The version for 13 string players [4 first violins, 3 second violins, 3 violas, 2 'cellos & 1 double bass] uses every instrument independently. There are many unison doublings, but also fully divided sections to create multiple, subtle timbres according to the different instruments used side by side. The full effect cannot easily be demonstrated here in electronic mimicry - only a live performance could do it justice.

I made two recordings using slightly different sounds - so take your choice!

Recording (1)

Recording (2)