The Downward Staircase: A Warmup for String Orchestra

This is a fantastic and hypnotic warmup that high school level string ensembles will love.  My groups look forward to it at the beginning of every rehearsal.  The magic of this descending chord pattern builds intonation and rhythmic subdivision skills by necessitating listening across the ensemble.  Music theory concepts such as major and minor thirds as well as triad chord quality are included in an overview at the top of the page, followed by a score for treble, alto and bass clef instruments.