String Quartet String Quartet - Level 3 - Digital Download

SKU: A0.778049

Composed by John David. Arranged by Jen Mathers. 20th Century,Pop,Praise & Worship. Score and parts. 4 pages. Jen Mathers #5790833. Published by Jen Mathers (A0.778049).

Arranged for standard string quartet (NOTE: the audio and video samples are performed by a cellist covering all violin, viola, and cello parts, but the voicing/octaves are identical to the string quartet arrangement).

This choral work was originally written by John David for the band Airwaves in 1978. It was later arranged by Peter Knight and recorded by the King's Singers. This transcription for strings follows the very popular King's Singers version.

The song is about 2 1/2 minutes long, and easy to read for all string parts. Doublestops could be skipped for beginning players. Bowings are included to facilitate uniform ensemble playing.

It is a secular song but is often used by church choirs. It is a lovely ensemble piece when played by string quartet, and can be used for weddings, memorial services, or any occasion requiring hopeful or somber music.
According to the composer: The inspiration for New Day was quite simple; I had just had a major blow in my personal life, and was sitting alone late at night on the settee feeling very low, and watching an ominous story on the news about the very real possibility of nuclear war. I started singing to the (hopefully) soon-to arrive New Day like it was an entity, that would rescue me from the depths. If the sun came up and the birds started singing as usual then I could believe that it really was the new day in which life would go on, and in which hope would survive.

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

SKU: A0.1490683

Composed by French Traditional. Arranged by James M. Guthrie. Chamber,Christmas,Historic,Standards,Traditional. 15 pages. Jmsgu3 #1067489. Published by jmsgu3 (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.