SKU: S9.Q6385

German • English.

This piece shows my hope to have our churches not only in peace but also in full communion. Naji Hakim Die Taube (The Dove) was commissioned by �Kirchenmusik bei St. Anna Augsburg� to celebrate the 450th anniversary of the Augsburger Religionsfrieden (Religious peace of Augsburg). It is based on three biblical verses related to peace : Gen. 8/11, Luk. 1/79, Joh. 14/27. The music is through composed and develops the character of the verses with contrasted string textures, putting in relief the expressive vocal line, declamation of light and happiness. The work exists in three versions : 1. for Tenor and string quartet, 2. for Tenor and string orchestra, 3. for Tenor and organ. First performance : by Robert Sellier, Tenor, Capella St. Anna Streichquartett, St. Anna Augsburg, Festkonzert zum Hohen Friedensfest, 8 August 2005. Gen.8/11 : �And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, lo, in her mouth was an olive leaf pluckt off. � Luk. 1/79 : �To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. � Joh.14/27 : �Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. � ...to guide our feet into the way of peace. (Luke 1,79) Words and music bind people together to form fellowships which guide us into the way of peace. Singing or playing together combine bodies and souls, so that our rhythm and breathing becomes one - a sense of belonging to one another is created which instils the very nature of peace. So it is that by becoming an integral part of the music, our feet are guided 'into the way of peace'. In Luke chapter 1, both Maria and Zechariah are carried away, body and soul, in hymns of thanksgiving. They let God´s melody resound in their bodies. Ignatius, one of the Early Fathers of the Church, might have drawn his inspiration from them when he wrote to the Christians of Ephesus around the year 100, Let God´s melody resound in you. The melody of our life is a single voice within God´s great melody; an everlasting celestial melody, in which we join together as integral parts - with time, we are gradually shown which chords we are given to touch and which chords to form with one another. God´s inextinguishable melody has an infinite galaxy of variations. As you would know, a variation is rooted but limitless. At our christening, God gives us a variation - an inextinguishable variation because of his promise, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. (Matthew 28, 20). Deeply rooted as we are, God leads us through. He calls us to Life out of His Eternity, He lets his melody reverberate in us and finally calls us back, when we die, to His everlasting future. Let God´s melody resound in you and guide your feet into the way of peace. Pastor Hanne Margrethe Tougaard.

SKU: A0.1130593

Luke 1:46-55 - from the New English Version of the Bible, plus verse 38 paraphrase, form the lyrics for this Soprano Vocal Solo with String Quartet (composer's piano accompaniment version also available.) Mary's exhilarating song of praise to God who has made her to be the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ. Polyphonic, multi-tonal, and multi-metric, 20th C classical style. Accompaniment is very descriptive of the lyrical content. Includes Score plus all 4 string quartet parts: Violin 1 & 2, Viola, Cello.

SKU: A0.1153300

This pop hit by Australian band 5 Seconds of Summer is arranged here for string quartet (2 violins, violin 3 or viola, and cello) or quintet with the addition of double bass. This arrangement has been specifically created to be very accessible for primary/elementary school ensembles. All instruments stay within the hand position of low second fingers for violin and viola/ second fingers on cello/bass, with the exception of one low F# in the violas, and one Bb in the solo violin part. The rhythm is simple with some elementary syncopation. All instruments have moving parts. Purchase includes score and one print of each part. Violin 3 part (Viola in treble clef) is included.

SKU: A0.1490683

Ding Dong! Merrily on High is a well-loved Christmas carol with a rich history that connects secular and sacred traditions. Here are the key points to know about this festive song:

Origins and Composition

Melody: The tune of Ding Dong! Merrily on High derives from a secular French dance song titled Branle de l’Official, published in 1588 by Thoinot Arbeau, a French cleric and composer. The original piece was part of a collection that included dance instructions and melodies from the Renaissance period.

Lyrics: The English lyrics were written by George Ratcliffe Woodward in the early 20th century. An Anglican priest, Woodward published the carol in 1924 as part of The Cambridge Carol Book. His text celebrates the joy of Christmas, echoing the angelic announcement of Jesus' birth as described in Luke 2:13-14.
Themes and Significance

Joyful Celebration: The lyrics express a jubilant celebration of the Christmas season, invoking imagery of bells ringing and angels singing. The refrain Gloria, hosannah in excelsis! reflects the joyous proclamation of peace and goodwill associated with the birth of Christ.

Cultural Impact: Over the years, Ding Dong! Merrily on High has become a staple in Christmas caroling and church services, appreciated for its lively and dance-like rhythm. Its playful nature makes it a favorite among singers and listeners, contributing to its enduring popularity during the holiday season.
Musical Characteristics

Structure: The carol features a catchy refrain and a structure that invites participation, making it suitable for group singing. The melody's ascending lines mimic the sound of ringing bells, enhancing its festive spirit.

Public Domain Status: As of January 1, 2020, the song entered the public domain in the United States, allowing for broader access and use in various musical arrangements and performances.

Ding Dong! Merrily on High stands as a joyful reminder of the Christmas story, blending historical melodies with contemporary celebration, making it a cherished part of holiday traditions.