SKU: A0.1312368

I Wonder as I Wander by John Jacob Niles is here arranged by Joel Jacklich (ASCAP) for voice and string quartet.

� Wonder as I Wander nis a Christian folk hymn, typically performed as a Christmas carol, written by American folklorist and singer John Jacob Niles. The hymn has its origins in a song fragment collected by Niles on July 16, 1933.[1][2][3][4][5]

While in the town of Murphy in Appalachian North Carolina, Niles attended a fundraising meeting held by evangelicals who had been ordered out of town by the police.[1][5] In his unpublished autobiography, he wrote of hearing the song:

A girl had stepped out to the edge of the little platform attached to the automobile. She began to sing. Her clothes were unbelievable dirty and ragged, and she, too, was unwashed. Her ash-blond hair hung down in long skeins. ... But, best of all, she was beautiful, and in her untutored way, she could sing. She smiled as she sang, smiled rather sadly, and sang only a single line of a song.[2]

The girl, named Annie Morgan, repeated the fragment seven times in exchange for a quarter per performance, and Niles left with three lines of verse, a garbled fragment of melodic material—and a magnificent idea.[2][5] (In various accounts of this story, Niles hears between one and three lines of the song.[2][4][5][6]) Based on this fragment, Niles composed the version of I Wonder as I Wander that is known today, extending the melody to four lines and the lyrics to three stanzas.[2][3][5] His composition was completed on October 4, 1933.[2] Niles first performed the song on December 19, 1933, at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, North Carolina.[2][6] It was originally published in Songs of the Hill Folk in 1934.[4][6]

References
1. Bradley, Ian. The Penguin Book of Carols. Penguin (1999), p148. ISBN 0-14-027526-6.
2. Pen, Ron. I Wonder as I Wander. A Kentucky Christmas (George Ella Lyon, editor). University Press of Kentucky (2003), p200–201. ISBN 0-8131-2279-1.
3. Studwell, William E. The Christmas Carol Reader. Haworth Press (1995), p111. ISBN 1-56024-974-9.
4. Emmons, Shirlee & Wilbur Watkin Lewis. Researching the Song: A Lexicon. Oxford University Press (2006), p242. ISBN 0-19-515202-6.
5. Niles, John Jacob. I Wonder as I Wander. Archived 2006-03-25 at the Wayback Machine John-Jacob-Niles.com.
6. Stulken, Marilyn K. With One Voice: Reference Companion. Augsburg Fortress (2000), p25. ISBN 0-8066-3843-5.

Program Notes from Wikipedia.

SKU: A0.505510

The Chapel Hill Duo’s series of Christmas arrangements features traditional carols and popular Christmas themed songs arranged for violin and cello and now also for String Quartet. Unlike most arrangements of traditional carols, the Chapel Hill Duo have used their expertise to develop these carols into unique pieces each with their own artistic merit. Each arrangement is a full-length work, not just 32bars! Many of the arrangements incorporate Jazzy twists and take influences from folk music and pop music as well as utilising exciting virtuosic instrumental techniques.

As full-length arrangements, the Chapel Hill Duo’s Christmas series is perfect for educational purposes such as teaching and workshops and has the potential to be used as part of School concerts, for Christmas parties and as encores in seasonal concerts.

Suitable for intermediate to advanced musicians, these arrangements could be used as a seasonal project for young students or as repertoire for more advanced musicians.

In 2015 the Chapel Hill Duo recorded their own versions of these arrangements, you can buy the album ‘A Traditional Christmas’ at https://chapelhillduo.bandcamp.com/releases and most other online distributors.

Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/a-traditional-christmas/1053382349

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2O8vN7BcTK7hCvpqoaROgS

For more information please visit www.ChapelHillDuo.co.uk.

Or get in touch on Facebook or Youtube at www.Facebook.com/ChapelHillDuo and www.Youtube.com/TheChapelHillDuo

SKU: A0.800204

The Holiday Season can be really painful for lower string players in any ensemble. Playing ‘cello in a Carol concert makes me want to cry. That is why I have created arrangements of classic Christmas Carols and Songs guaranteed not to bore the pants off your violist or ‘cellist. No more bashing out bass notes for the ‘cello, and no more chugging away on the off-beat for viola while the fiddles get soaring melody after soaring counter-melody. We deserve more than this, right guys? You got it!

This arrangement of 'White Christmas’ for string quartet stays true to the spirit of the original Bing Crosby version with respect both melody and harmony. Beginning with those unmistakeable 4 chords in the upper strings, the ‘cello takes the majority of the vocal line, but all three other parts are also given a chance to shine with melody, counter melody and harmony by turns. With high positions in both violin parts and up to 4th position plus harmonics for the lower strings, the challenge in this arrangement is found in the technical and musical interpretation of this iconic song, and is a great play for ensembles of advanced intermediate standard.

Note from the arranger: All my arrangements for strings are conceived specifically with the aim of writing interesting parts for all players. Most parts do not go beyond 4th position (with the exception of a few harmonics in the lower string parts, and some higher positions in the violin parts), making them suitable for advanced student and mixed ability groups. A complete score and set of individual parts (violin 1, violin 2, viola, ‘cello) is included. Enjoy and feel free to email comments or requests for other works to stringspirational@gmail.com

SKU: A0.1489376

Carol of the Bells is a well-known Christmas carol with a rich history rooted in Ukrainian culture. Here are the key points to understand about this iconic piece:

Original Composition: The melody of Carol of the Bells is derived from a Ukrainian folk song called Shchedryk, which Mykola Leontovych composed in 1914. Shchedryk, which translates to The Little Swallow, was originally a New Year's song celebrating the arrival of spring and good fortune.

Cultural Context: The song's origins are tied to Ukrainian traditions, where it was sung by young girls going door-to-door on New Year's Eve, wishing families prosperity and good luck for the coming year. The swallow in the song symbolizes the arrival of spring and abundance.

English Lyrics: In 1936, American composer Peter Wilhousky adapted the melody for Christmas, writing new lyrics that emphasized bells and Christmas cheer themes. This version transformed Shchedryk into Carol of the Bells, quickly gaining popularity in the United States and becoming a staple of Christmas music.

Musical Structure: The carol features a distinctive four-note ostinato and is metrically bistable, allowing listeners to perceive the rhythm differently. It is typically arranged in 3/4 time and has a lively and festive feel, contributing to its widespread appeal.

Widespread Adaptations: Carol of the Bells has been recorded in over 150 versions across various musical genres, including classical, jazz, rock, and heavy metal. Notable adaptations include those by Mannheim Steamroller and John Williams, which have helped to cement its status as a Christmas classic.

Cultural Significance: The song's association with Christmas has overshadowed its Ukrainian roots, leading to a complex relationship with its cultural identity. In recent years, there has been a movement to reclaim Shchedryk as a significant part of Ukrainian heritage, especially amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Modern Recognition: The song is frequently featured in films, television shows, and holiday concerts, making it a beloved part of the Christmas season. Its ability to evoke joy and nostalgia resonates with audiences worldwide.

In summary, Carol of the Bells is not just a Christmas carol but a piece with deep cultural roots and a fascinating history of transformation from a Ukrainian folk song to a global holiday favorite.

SKU: A0.616921

CHRISTMAS STRING QUARTET is comprised of 3 arrangements by Gary Lanier for String Quartet of some of our most cherished Christmas songs. There are 2 medleys, CHRISTMAS JOY MEDLEY (Including Joy to the World, O Come All Ye Faithful and Away in a Manger) and ANGELS CHRISTMAS MEDLEY (Including Angels We Have Heard on High and The First Noel) in this collection and ends with a delightful arrangement of SILENT NIGHT. This is a great collection at the great price of less than $10 each. The score, including cover & parts is 53 pages long. These arrangements are perfect for any Church or gathering where celebrating the reason for the season is desired.

SKU: A0.929880

10 Christmas arrangements for string quartet: Angels We Have Heard On High, Auld Lang Syne, Away In A Manger, Deck The Halls, Go Tell It On The Mountain, God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen, Hallelujah Chorus (Abridged), Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, I Saw Three Ships, and The First Noel. Ideal for holiday caroling!

SKU: AX.00-PC-0000074_VN3

UPC: 038081003184.

A four volume collection of arrangements from grade 3 string quartets. Contains music from the Baroque and Classical eras as well as folk melodies and Christmas carols. A great way to introduce young string players to chamber music playing. Titles: Andante and Allegro, Mozart * Brandenburg Concerto, No. 3, Bach * Fascination, Marchetti * Hopak, Mussorgsky * Hunter's Chorus, von Weber * Serenade, Toselli * To A Wild Rose MacDowell * Concerto in E Minor, Avinson * To South America Songs.

SKU: A0.1500348

O Christmas Tree, originally known as O Tannenbaum, is a significant holiday carol with deep cultural and historical roots. Here are some key points regarding its importance:

Origins and Evolution
German Roots: The carol originated in Germany, where O Tannenbaum was a traditional folk song that celebrated the fir tree's beauty and symbolized faithfulness and endurance. The melody dates back to the 16th century, and the modern lyrics were adapted by German composer Ernst Anschütz in 1824.

Cultural Adaptation: In the 19th century, the song transitioned into English as O Christmas Tree, aligning with the growing Christmas tree tradition in Western cultures, particularly in the UK and the US. This adaptation reflects the broader cultural exchange and the incorporation of German customs into English-speaking Christmas celebrations.

Symbolism
Evergreen Significance: The lyrics of O Christmas Tree emphasize the tree's evergreen nature, which serves as a metaphor for reliability and hope. The fir tree is celebrated for its beauty and ability to remain vibrant throughout the seasons, symbolizing steadfastness and renewal.

Christmas Tradition: The song has become synonymous with Christmas celebrations, marking the festive season for many families. It encapsulates the joy and warmth associated with decorating Christmas trees, a practice that has become a worldwide central aspect of holiday traditions.

Musical and Cultural Impact
Widespread Popularity: O Christmas Tree is one of the most recognized Christmas carols, performed in various versions across different cultures. Its melody and themes resonate with audiences, making it a staple in holiday music repertoires.

Educational Value: The carol serves as an educational tool, introducing children to concepts of cultural heritage, music history, and the significance of seasonal traditions. It allows for discussions about the evolution of holiday practices and the blending of cultural influences.

In summary, O Christmas Tree is important as a beloved holiday song and a cultural artifact that reflects historical traditions, symbolism, and the spirit of Christmas.