String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Level 2 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1257127

Composed by Guillaume de Machaut, 1300-1377. Arranged by James M. Guthrie, ASCAP. Chamber,Contest,Early Music,Festival,Historic,Medieval. 84 pages. Jmsgu3 #850426. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.1257127).

1. Kyrie
2. Gloria
3. Credo
4. Sanctus
5. Agnus dei
6. Ite missa est

Guillaume de Machaut composed the Messe de Nostre Dame, also known as the Mass of Our Lady, in the early 1360s. He wrote the mass for the Cathedral at Reims, where he served as a canon, a permanent clergy member. According to a rubric found at the Cathedral, it would have likely been performed for the Saturday Lady Mass. 

Guillaume de Machaut's Messe de Nostre Dame is significant in the history of music for several reasons:

• It is the first complete setting of the Ordinary of the Mass by a single composer that has survived.
• It is a unified mass, meaning that the composer selected relevant chants for each section as the borrowed tenor.
• It was composed in four voices, which was unusual at the time.
• The texts of both Gloria and Credo are quite lengthy, and therefore Machaut set these movements in a style reminiscent of the earlier discant style, having short phrases, similar rhythmic motion in all parts, and a low ratio of notes per syllable of text, both ending with long, rhapsodic sections for the final word, Amen.

Machaut's Messe de Nostre Dame is a landmark in musical history, but it is far from being avant-garde merely for the sake of uniqueness. It is considered to be a culmination of the musical style of the Ars Nova period, which was characterized by complex polyphonic textures and rhythmic innovations. The mass is also significant because it was composed during a time of great political and social upheaval in Europe, and it reflects the changing attitudes towards religion and music during this period. Overall, Machaut's Messe de Nostre Dame is a significant work that represents a culmination of the musical style of the Ars Nova period and reflects the changing attitudes towards religion and music during the 14th century. 

The mass consists of five movements: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei, followed by the dismissal Ite, missa est. The tenor of the Kyrie is based on Vatican Kyrie IV, the Sanctus, and Agnus correspond to Vatican Mass XVII, and the Ite is on Sanctus VIII. The Gloria and Credo have no apparent chant basis, although they are stylistically related to one another. The mass is a unified mass, meaning that the composer selected relevant chants for each section as the borrowed tenor. The Messe de Nostre Dame is significant in the history of music because it is the first complete setting of the Ordinary of the Mass by a single composer that has survived. It is also significant because it was composed during a time of great political and social upheaval in Europe, and it reflects the changing attitudes towards religion and music during this period. 

Overall, the Messe de Nostre Dame was an important part of the liturgical practices of the time, and it is still regarded as a masterpiece of medieval music and of all religious music.

String Quartet String Quartet - Level 2 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1257044

Composed by Guillaume de Machaut, 1300-1377. Arranged by James M. Guthrie, ASCAP. Chamber,Contest,Early Music,Festival,Historic,Medieval. 38 pages. Jmsgu3 #850380. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.1257044).

1. Kyrie
2. Gloria
3. Credo
4. Sanctus
5. Agnus dei
6. Ite missa est

Guillaume de Machaut composed the Messe de Nostre Dame, also known as the Mass of Our Lady, in the early 1360s. He wrote the mass for the Cathedral at Reims, where he served as a canon, a permanent clergy member. According to a rubric found at the Cathedral, it would have likely been performed for the Saturday Lady Mass. 

Guillaume de Machaut's Messe de Nostre Dame is significant in the history of music for several reasons:

• It is the first complete setting of the Ordinary of the Mass by a single composer that has survived.
• It is a unified mass, meaning that the composer selected relevant chants for each section as the borrowed tenor.
• It was composed in four voices, which was unusual at the time.
• The texts of both Gloria and Credo are quite lengthy, and therefore Machaut set these movements in a style reminiscent of the earlier discant style, having short phrases, similar rhythmic motion in all parts, and a low ratio of notes per syllable of text, both ending with long, rhapsodic sections for the final word, Amen.

Machaut's Messe de Nostre Dame is a landmark in musical history, but it is far from being avant-garde merely for the sake of uniqueness. It is considered to be a culmination of the musical style of the Ars Nova period, which was characterized by complex polyphonic textures and rhythmic innovations. The mass is also significant because it was composed during a time of great political and social upheaval in Europe, and it reflects the changing attitudes towards religion and music during this period. Overall, Machaut's Messe de Nostre Dame is a significant work that represents a culmination of the musical style of the Ars Nova period and reflects the changing attitudes towards religion and music during the 14th century. 

The mass consists of five movements: Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei, followed by the dismissal Ite, missa est. The tenor of the Kyrie is based on Vatican Kyrie IV, the Sanctus, and Agnus correspond to Vatican Mass XVII, and the Ite is on Sanctus VIII. The Gloria and Credo have no apparent chant basis, although they are stylistically related to one another. The mass is a unified mass, meaning that the composer selected relevant chants for each section as the borrowed tenor. The Messe de Nostre Dame is significant in the history of music because it is the first complete setting of the Ordinary of the Mass by a single composer that has survived. It is also significant because it was composed during a time of great political and social upheaval in Europe, and it reflects the changing attitudes towards religion and music during this period. 

Overall, the Messe de Nostre Dame was an important part of the liturgical practices of the time, and it is still regarded as a masterpiece of medieval music and of all religious music.

String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Level 4 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1491194

Composed by Traditional. Arranged by James M. Guthrie. Chamber,Christmas,Historic,Holiday,Traditional. 20 pages. Jmsgu3 #1067931. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.1491194).

Good King Wenceslas is a well-known Christmas carol that narrates the story of a kind-hearted ruler who braves winter weather to help a poor peasant. The carol is inspired by the historical figure of Saint Wenceslas I, Duke of Bohemia, who lived from approximately 907 to 935 AD. Although he is referred to as a king in the carol, he was a duke during his lifetime; the title of king was conferred upon him posthumously by Holy Roman Emperor Otto I.

Historical Context

Wenceslas was born into a Christian family and raised primarily by his grandmother, Ludmila, who significantly influenced his faith. His mother, Drahomíra, was aligned with paganism and ultimately had Ludmila murdered to gain power. Upon becoming Duke at 18, Wenceslas sought to promote Christianity and was known for his charitable acts, especially towards the poor and marginalized. His reign was marked by efforts to end religious conflicts and to build churches, including part of what is now St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague. However, his commitment to Christianity and his benevolent nature made him a target for his jealous younger brother, Boleslav, who ultimately conspired to murder him in 929 or 935 AD.

The Carol

The carol Good King Wenceslas was written in 1853 by English hymn-writer John Mason Neale, set to a melody from a 13th-century spring carol. It was designed to encourage Christian charity, particularly during Christmas, and is traditionally sung on the Feast of Stephen, December 26. The lyrics depict Wenceslas and his page witnessing a poor man gathering firewood and deciding to help him by bringing food and supplies. This story reflects the historical Wenceslas's reputation for generosity and compassion, which has led to his veneration as a saint and the patron saint of the Czech Republic. His legacy is celebrated in the Czech Republic, where he is known as Václav, and he is commemorated on September 28, known as St. Wenceslas Day.

Cultural Significance

The carol has become a staple of Christmas music in the English-speaking world, performed by various artists and choirs. It serves not only as a festive song but also as a reminder of the values of charity and kindness, echoing the life and virtues of the historical Wenceslas.

Organ, Violin, Viola, Cello, String Quartet - Intermediate - Digital Download Composed by Richard Wagner (1813-1883). Arranged by Kenneth Abeling. Opera, Post- Romantic. Score, Set of Parts. 17 pages. Published by LINCOLN MUSIC PUBLICATIONS

String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Level 4 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1491680

Composed by Traditional. Arranged by James M. Guthrie. Chamber,Christmas,Historic,Holiday,Traditional. 14 pages. Jmsgu3 #1068354. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.1491680).

I Saw Three Ships is a traditional English Christmas carol that has gained popularity for its melodic simplicity and festive themes. Here are some key points about its significance:

Historical Context
Origins: The earliest known printed version of I Saw Three Ships dates back to the 17th century, with a notable publication by William Sandys in 1833. The song was likely known earlier under As I Sat On a Sunny Bank, particularly popular in Cornwall.

Cultural Relevance: The carol reflects a period when maritime themes were prominent in English culture, coinciding with the Age of Exploration. This context made the imagery of ships particularly resonant for audiences of the time.

Symbolism and Interpretation
The Ships: The lyrics describe three ships arriving on Christmas Day, which has led to various interpretations. One common belief is that the ships symbolize the three vessels that carried the relics of the Magi to Cologne Cathedral in the 12th century. Alternatively, they may represent the camels used by the Magi, often referred to as ships of the desert due to their role in transporting the wise men to Bethlehem.

Bethlehem's Geography: The song mentions ships sailing into Bethlehem, which raises questions, as the nearest body of water is the Dead Sea, about 20 miles away. This discrepancy has prompted interpretations that focus on the symbolic rather than literal meaning of the ships.

Musical Legacy
Popularity: I Saw Three Ships has been embraced by various artists across genres, with notable recordings by musicians such as Sting, Glen Campbell, and Sufjan Stevens. Its enduring appeal makes it a staple in Christmas music repertoires.

Lyric Variations: Different song versions have emerged over the years, reflecting local traditions and interpretations. Some variations even change the context from Christmas to other celebrations, demonstrating the carol's flexibility in cultural contexts.

In summary, I Saw Three Ships is significant as a cherished Christmas carol and a cultural artifact that encapsulates historical maritime themes, religious symbolism, and the evolution of folk music traditions.

String Quintet - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1108659

By Jon Persson. By Traditional. Arranged by Jon Persson. Celtic,Chamber,Classical,Irish,Sacred,Traditional. 6 pages. Europa-Artists #711308. Published by Europa-Artists (A0.1108659).

An arrangement for classical string quintet of the beautiful Scottish folk song and lament performed for HM Queen Elizabeth's, and Prince Philip's, Memorials. This arrangement is inspired by lone pipers, with a bagpipe drone effect, so that one feels their movement as they proceed slowly through the cathedral. The arrangement can be played as a quartet or quintet, that is, with or without the contrabass part.

String Quintet - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1108656

By Jon Persson. By Traditional. Arranged by Jon Persson. Celtic,Chamber,Classical,Irish,Spiritual,Traditional. 3 pages. Europa-Artists #711306. Published by Europa-Artists (A0.1108656).

An arrangement for classical string quintet of the beautiful Scottish folk song and lament performed for HM Queen Elizabeth's, and Prince Philip's, Memorials. This arrangement is inspired by lone pipers, with a bagpipe drone effect, so that one feels their movement as they proceed slowly through the cathedral. The arrangement can be played as a quartet or quintet, that is, with or without the contrabass part.

String Quintet - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1108657

By Jon Persson. By Traditional. Arranged by Jon Persson. Celtic,Chamber,Classical,Irish,Spiritual,Traditional. 9 pages. Europa-Artists #711307. Published by Europa-Artists (A0.1108657).

An arrangement for classical string quintet of the beautiful Scottish folk song and lament performed for HM Queen Elizabeth's, and Prince Philip's, Memorials. This arrangement is inspired by lone pipers, with a bagpipe drone effect, so that one feels their movement as they proceed slowly through the cathedral. The arrangement can be played as a quartet or quintet, that is, with or without the contrabass part.

String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1505206

Composed by Traditional. Arranged by James M. Guthrie. Chamber,Christmas,Historic,Renaissance,Traditional. 14 pages. Jmsgu3 #1080594. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.1505206).

The Coventry Carol is an essential and historically significant English Christmas carol with several notable aspects:

Origins and History
It originated in the 16th century in Coventry, England.
The carol was part of a medieval mystery play called The Pageant of the Shearmen and Tailors.
It was performed annually by local trade guilds as part of religious community events that told Bible stories.

Unique Subject Matter
Unlike most Christmas carols, it does not celebrate the birth of Jesus but instead commemorates the Massacre of the Innocents.
The lyrics are from the perspective of mothers in Bethlehem mourning their children who are about to be killed by King Herod's soldiers.

Musical Characteristics
It has a haunting, plaintive melody in a minor key, which adds to its somber mood.
The original medieval melody has been lost, but the current tune dates back to at least 1591.

Historical Preservation
The carol narrowly survived being lost to history. The original manuscript was destroyed in a fire in 1879 but was preserved thanks to earlier transcriptions by scholars. It gained renewed popularity after being broadcast from the bombed ruins of Coventry Cathedral in 1940 during World War II.

Cultural Impact
While not as widely known as some carols, it remains an important part of English Christmas musical traditions.
Its poignant lyrics and melody have made it a powerful and moving piece for many listeners.

Thus, The Coventry Carol represents an important piece of medieval English musical and theatrical history and a unique perspective on the Christmas story that has endured for centuries.

String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Digital Download

SKU: A0.945185

Arranged by Bethani King. Wedding,World. Score and parts. 7 pages. Bethani Lorene King #6628749. Published by Bethani Lorene King (A0.945185).

Beautiful String Quartet arrangement of the Scottish classic Highland Cathedral. Popular selection for wedding music. .

String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1463113

Composed by Giuseppe Torelli. Arranged by Ray Thompson. Baroque,Christmas. 10 pages. RayThompsonMusic #1041866. Published by RayThompsonMusic (A0.1463113).

Alternative Title: Concerto à Quattro, in forma di Pastorale per il Santo Natale

Often known as his Christmas Concerto

Arranged standard string quartet.

Giuseppe Torelli (1658–1709) wrote numerous and often imposing symphonies for use in the San Petronio Cathedral in Bologne well before the turn of the century.

Furthermore, he was the first composer to write a concerto for solo violin and string orchestra (published at Augsburg, 1698), and his Concerti Grossi Op 8, which appeared in print shortly after his death, are the very first concertos for two solo violins.

It is the sixth of these that contains the Christmas music. 

A solemn ‘Grave’ sets the scene for the Pastorale, marked ‘Vivace’ and cast in 12/8 metre, the two solo violins carrying much of the melodic interest.
A meditative Largo leads to another ‘Vivace’ which is a Gavotte en Musette in all but name, its held bass notes strongly suggesting the drone of the shepherds’ pipes.

This is my arrangement of the 1st movement.

String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1469357

Composed by Giuseppe Torelli. Arranged by Ray Thompson. Baroque,Christmas. 8 pages. RayThompsonMusic #1045632. Published by RayThompsonMusic (A0.1469357).

Alternative Title: Concerto à Quattro, in forma di Pastorale per il Santo Natale

Often known as his Christmas Concerto

Arranged standard string quartet.

Giuseppe Torelli (1658–1709) wrote numerous and often imposing symphonies for use in the San Petronio Cathedral in Bologne well before the turn of the century.

Furthermore, he was the first composer to write a concerto for solo violin and string orchestra (published at Augsburg, 1698), and his Concerti Grossi Op 8, which appeared in print shortly after his death, are the very first concertos for two solo violins. 

It is the sixth of these that contains the Christmas music. 

A solemn ‘Grave’ sets the scene for the Pastorale, marked ‘Vivace’ and cast in 12/8 metre, the two solo violins carrying much of the melodic interest. 
A meditative Largo leads to another ‘Vivace’ which is a Gavotte en Musette in all but name, its held bass notes strongly suggesting the drone of the shepherds’ pipes.

This is my arrangement of the 3rd  movement.

String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1289747

Composed by William Byrd. Arranged by James M. Guthrie. Chamber,Contest,Early Music,Festival,Historic,Renaissance. 44 pages. Jmsgu3 #880447. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.1289747).

William Byrd was an English composer and organist who lived during the Renaissance period. He is considered one of the greatest composers of the era and had a profound influence on composers both from his native country and on the Continent. Byrd is best known for his development of the English madrigal and his ability to elevate the English keyboard style through his compositions for virginal and organ music.

He was a pupil and protégé of the organist and composer Thomas Tallis, and his first authenticated appointment was as organist at Lincoln Cathedral in 1563. Byrd's output of about 470 compositions amply justifies his reputation as one of the great masters of European Renaissance music.

He was adept at attracting sponsorship, and his most important patrons were Roman Catholic sympathizers. Byrd was responsible for publishing about ten volumes of songs by other composers, his role as publisher allowing him to play an even more prominent part in making both literary and musical composition much more broadly available to a public audience.

William Byrd's Fantasias are considered to be highly important. Byrd, an English composer of the Renaissance, played a significant role in pioneering the development of the freely composed fantasia, which became an essential form of Jacobean and later composers. His array of sacred and secular compositions demonstrates a deeply sophisticated musical mind, blending technical prowess and emotional fervor. Byrd is regarded as one of the most prolific composers of the Renaissance, with over 600 of his pieces circulating. Therefore, the Fantasias of William Byrd hold great significance in the history of music.

String Quartet Cello,String Quartet,Viola,Violin - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.1290387

Composed by William Byrd. Arranged by James M. Guthrie. Chamber,Contest,Early Music,Festival,Historic,Renaissance. 14 pages. Jmsgu3 #881099. Published by jmsgu3 (A0.1290387).

William Byrd was an English composer and organist who lived during the Renaissance period. He is considered one of the greatest composers of the era and had a profound influence on composers both from his native country and on the Continent. Byrd is best known for his development of the English madrigal and his ability to elevate the English keyboard style through his compositions for virginal and organ music.

He was a pupil and protégé of the organist and composer Thomas Tallis, and his first authenticated appointment was as organist at Lincoln Cathedral in 1563. Byrd's output of about 470 compositions amply justifies his reputation as one of the great masters of European Renaissance music.

He was adept at attracting sponsorship, and his most important patrons were Roman Catholic sympathizers. Byrd was responsible for the publication of about 10 volumes of songs by other composers, his role as publisher allowing him to play an even more prominent part in making both literary and musical composition much more broadly available to a public audience.