String Ensemble Cello,Double Bass,Viola,Violin - Level 3 - Digital Download SKU: A0.813325 Composed by Mykola Leontovych. Arranged by Regis Bookshar. 20th Century,A Cappella,Christmas,Multicultural,Standards,World. Score and parts. 21 pages. Regis Bookshar #6197487. Published by Regis Bookshar (A0.813325). String Octet - Intermediate - Digital Download. This selection, Carol of the Bells, also known as Ring, Christmas Bells, is suitable for high school and college students and is perfect for Christmas concerts and church services. Carol of the Bells was written by the Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych in 1914 with lyrics by Peter J. Wilhousky. The song is based on the Ukrainian folk chant Shchedryk, a New Year's song, known in English as The Little Swallow, and utilizes a four-note ostinato which brings to mind the ringing of bells. Originally intended to be sung a capella by a mixed four-part choir it has since been recorded into over 150 versions and re-arrangements for various vocal and instrumental compositions. One version, Ring, Christmas Bells, an English-language variant with Nativity-based lyrics, was written by Minna Louise Hohman in 1947. Regis Bookshar has now arranged the music for a String Octet, consisting of 4 Violins, 2 Violas, 1 Violoncello and 1 Double Bass. Included are a score and a complete set of parts (21 pages). In addition to this version for a String Octet, many other arrangements of this selection are also available for a variety of instrumental ensembles, including Quintets, Sextets, Septets and Octets, as well as numerous other selections in a wide variety of styles. I would encourage you to search for other arrangements by Regis Bookshar. You may find something else which might interest you as well. I'm certain that this exciting arrangement will entertain both performers and audiences alike for years to come.
