Writing for Strings Masterclass Released

Now available online! Arranger and orchestrator, Harlan Hodges, discusses his creative process featuring music from the album Anthem by Jeff Pifher & Socrates’ Trial. 

Every time I sit down with Harlan at his studio I learn so much about writing for strings. I found myself thinking of what a wonderful idea it would be to record this information and share it with others. I approached Harlan with my thoughts and he graciously accepted. We immediately began brainstorming about how to organize such a vast topic. I rounded up all of the video recorded material we had from our last recording session and started making choices for examples. We went back and forth during several meetings and came up with pages of topics and notes. After a full day of recording his interview, I had to narrow down the material. Harlan had so many insightful things to say about what makes him able to write such great music for string ensembles. Several topics were covered that day but a handful forms this 45 minute masterclass ready to share with the world.

Highlights Include:

• Play-by-plays with Harlan as notated scores scroll to the music examples performed by live string musicians.
• Sit down with Harlan at his piano as he explains his techniques for navigating harmonies.
• Performances by the band Jeff Pifher & Socrates’ Trial featuring Harlan’s string writing.

Topics Include:  

• What to listen for
• Navigating harmony
• Influences
• Working with your client
• Picking ideas
• Connecting storyline
• Arranging and orchestration techniques