Richard Neukom Collection
In 1977, Richard Neukom was hired to revive a dormant string program at the Devils Lake Public Schools in Devils Lake, North Dakota. In 2020—42 years later!—Mr. Neukom retired, leaving behind a legacy steeped in the love and appreciation for string orchestra. As the district’s only orchestra teacher, Richard composed works to suit the needs of his orchestras. Over three hundred works have been crafted with the playing experience of the student in mind. Practical pedagogical elements addressing the everyday needs of an orchestra teacher are also a unique feature of the collection. Beo Publishing—helmed by the members of Beo, including Mr. Neukom’s sons—is proud to release these treasured works, now known as The Richard Neukom Collection.
Listen to the work here!
Huaraches Viejos
This riveting work features hemiola to create rhythmic drive. The use of complicated divisi passages and double stops makes the work flare with virtuosic excitement.
Learn more about the work by watching a short interview with Mr. Neukom.
Listen to the work here!
Loch Lomond
The well-known Scottish folk song done as a theme with variations. Every instrument gets a turn at the melody!
Listen to the work here!
Tarantella for Strings
A lively dance in 6/8 time in the wonderful key of a minor.
Listen to the work here!
Variations on “Sweet Betsy from Pike”
This wonderful set of variations on the American folk song starts with the entire orchestra playing the melody. Soon the orchestra breaks into harmonized parts, a march, and a waltz!
Listen to the work here!
Two Pieces for Strings
This set of two short pieces will surely be a student favorite! "Fiddler's March" has the violins move from F natural to F sharp on the E string, "Down Home Strings" uses detached bowing, and both pieces can be played with piano accompaniment.