The Spaniard is an atmospheric work which was first commissioned by Brisbane’s Western Suburbs String Orchestra (WSSO) and premiered to enthusiastic audience acclaim in September, 2018. The piece is somewhat programmatic and ternary in structure, celebrating the adventurous naval exploits of an heroic captain in the name of his queen and country. Luck is with the Spaniard when he survives the shipwreck of his vessel off the coast of Ireland and is rescued by a brave and beautiful Irish maiden whom he later marries. He cannot, however, resist the call of the ocean as he returns to his homeland to renew his seafaring life. This attractive piece, brimming with lyrical tunes, appeals equally to audiences and students from middle high school.
Duration: 3:35 Key: D minor and A aeolian mode
Keith Sharp has been a string educator in The Gap regional state schools of Brisbane, Australia since 1985. Keith commenced teaching at Brisbane State High School in 2012, where his program focuses on ensemble and group tuition. He enjoys writing imaginative and appealing pieces for string students, many of which are now performed by young players around the world. These educational ensemble pieces have been consistently highlighted as Editor’s Choice in the J.W. Pepper Orchestral Music Catalog.
Keith holds a Bachelor of Music Degree and a Graduate Diploma of Further Education. He is a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow. In 2006 he received a Ryan Recognition Award and in 2013 a “Can Do” Educator of the Year Award acknowledging his contribution to music education in the region. Keith is a past president and committee member of AUSTA Queensland, and in 2012 was recognised by AUSTA with a state award. He regularly appears at schools, music camps and workshops as a guest clinician/ composer, teacher and conductor. Keith is co-author of the popular beginner string method, Encore on Strings - Music Maestros.
